Shakira is Pregnant: Colombian Star and Barcelona Defender Gerard Pique Expecting First Child

Colombian singer Shakira has confirmed she is pregnant with her first child. The 35 year old is in a relationship with Spanish international footballer Gerard Pique. The news was announced via her official Web site.

The message from the singer reads: "As some of you may know, Gerard and I are very happy awaiting the arrival of our first baby! 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."

One of the events she will therefore not be attending is the iHeartRadio Music Festival, at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas on the 21 and 22 of September. She was to have starred with Enrique Iglesias and Pitbull.

The statement on her Web site ends: "I'd like to thank Clear Channel and my fans for their constant love and understanding. Big kiss! And will see you very soon!"

Shakira and Pique, who plays his club football for Catalan giants Barcelona and is 10 years younger than her, confirmed their relationship in March last year, with a Facebook post and photograph of the two. Rumours the singer was pregnant followed about a year later (in June) and were strengthened after the two were seen shopping for maternity clothes in Miami.

The Hips Don't Lie singer previously dated Antonio de La Rua, the son of former Argentine president Fernando de la Rua, for 11 years before breaking up in 2011.

Meanwhile, Shakira has signed a contract to replace fellow singer Christina Aguilera for the fourth season of NBC's reality television singing contest The Voice. In other personnel changes, Cee Lo Green will be replaced by R&B singer Usher.

"Thanks for your affectionate messages & good vibes! I'm so excited to be a part of #TheVoice next to such talented colleagues," Shakira tweeted, following the announcement.