In recent weeks, a wave of speculation swept across social media and various international news outlets, suggesting that Brazilian football icon Roberto Carlos had converted to Islam. This rumor gained traction after photos surfaced online depicting a wedding ceremony that appeared to follow Islamic traditions, complete with a qazi officiating the event. However, after considerable misinformation circulated, the legendary left-back has taken the opportunity to clarify the facts surrounding his personal life.
The Origin of the Rumor
The initial reports claiming that Carlos had embraced Islam were sparked by his reported meeting with Sheikh Jihad Hamada, a prominent figure within Brazil’s Muslim community. Concurrently, images of the wedding ceremony featuring Carlos began to circulate, leading many to conclude that he had converted to Islam and tied the knot in a traditional Islamic ceremony. The photographs fueled speculation, prompting widespread discussion about his faith and personal beliefs.
Setting the Record Straight
In a recent interview with the Saudi daily Okaz, Roberto Carlos addressed the swirling rumors directly. He expressed his deep respect for Islam and shared that observing his wife, Moroccan businesswoman Soheila Tahiri, in prayer is a beautiful experience for him. Nonetheless, he firmly stated, “The rumors circulating that I have converted to Islam are not true.” Carlos elaborated that his wedding to Soheila was designed to honor the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds of both families, reflecting a blend of traditions rather than a shift in his personal beliefs. He noted, “My family members are Catholic, and we included arrangements that respect their faith while also honoring my wife’s Muslim background and her friends.” This thoughtful approach to their nuptials has led to misunderstandings regarding his religious stance, which Carlos firmly clarified does not equate to a change in his own faith.
Roberto Carlos also shared the story of his relationship with Soheila, revealing they first met during a business meeting connected to football. He praised her as a successful entrepreneur and mentioned that their two-year relationship has fostered a deep understanding between them, both personally and professionally. The marriage has attracted significant interest in both Morocco and Brazil, as the blending of Soheila’s Moroccan heritage and Carlos’s global football fame has created a compelling narrative.
This marriage marks Roberto Carlos’s third, following his divorces from Alexandra Pinheiro in 2003 and Mariana Lucon in 2025. With a total of 11 children from multiple relationships, Carlos has navigated a complex personal life while remaining a beloved figure in the football world.
As reported by en.prothomalo.com.
