Shakira Announces Pregnancy With Footballer Boyfriend Gerard Pique

20 September 2012, 08:56 | Updated: 20 September 2012, 10:54

The 'She Wolf' singer is preparing to become a first time mother with her partner of the past two years.

Shakira has announced that she and boyfriend Gerard Pique are expecting their first child together.

The 'Hips Don't Lie' singer announced the news through her official website on Wednesday (19th September), and confirmed she would be taking some time off to enjoy the moment with friends and family.

"As some of you may know, Gerard and I are very happy awaiting the arrival of our first baby!" Shakira posted yesterday. "At this time we have decided to give priority to this unique moment in our lives and postpone all the promotional activities planned over the next few days."

The 'She Wolf' singer also confirmed she had decided to cancel her upcoming scheduled performance at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas, and apologised to fans for letting them down.

35 year-old Shakira has been dating FC Barcelona footballer Gerard for the past two years, after confirming their relationship in early 2011.

Check out a picture of Shakira performing live below (Credit: PA Photos):

It was also announced this week that Shakira will join Usher as temporary vocal coaches on The Voice US for the show's upcoming fourth season in early 2013, before regular panelists Christina Aguilera and Cee Lo Green return in the autumn for the fifth season.

Shakira has yet to announce a due date for her first baby.