Shakira and Piqué ‘regret to confirm’ they are separating after 12 years together

One of the world’s most powerful celebrity couples, Shakira and Gerard Piqué, have called it quits after 12 years together.

The Colombian pop sensation, 45, and the Spanish soccer phenom, 35, confirmed their split Saturday in a joint statement obtained by CNN. They share two sons: 7-year-old Sasha Piqué Mebarak and 9-year-old Milan Piqué Mebarak.

“We regret to confirm that we are separating,” read the statement, which was also released in Spanish. “For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we request respect for (our) privacy. Thank you for your understanding.”