Close
newsletters Newsletters
X Instagram Youtube

Football legend Roberto Carlos denies viral Islam conversion claims

Roberto Carlos attends a wedding ceremony with his wife, Gisella El Tahiri, as the couple incorporates different traditions to reflect their families' religious beliefs. (Photo via Saudi Gazette)
Photo
BigPhoto
Roberto Carlos attends a wedding ceremony with his wife, Gisella El Tahiri, as the couple incorporates different traditions to reflect their families' religious beliefs. (Photo via Saudi Gazette)
August 20, 2026 09:55 AM GMT+03:00

Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos has denied claims circulating on social media that he converted to Islam, while underlining his respect for the religion and for his Muslim wife's faith.

The former Real Madrid and Brazil national team star addressed the rumors after they gained traction online following comments attributed to a religious official in Brazil.

Reports about Carlos' marriage to a Muslim woman, along with the inclusion of Islamic traditions in their wedding, had also fueled speculation about whether the former footballer had changed his religion.

Aziz Yildirim (R) attends the signing ceremony of Brazilian footballer Roberto Carlos (L) at Fenerbahce Sukru Saracoglu Stadium in Istanbul, Türkiye, June 19, 2007. (AA Photo)
Aziz Yildirim (R) attends the signing ceremony of Brazilian footballer Roberto Carlos (L) at Fenerbahce Sukru Saracoglu Stadium in Istanbul, Türkiye, June 19, 2007. (AA Photo)

Carlos shuts down conversion rumors

Carlos directly rejected the claims in comments to Saudi Arabian newspaper Okaz, making clear that his appreciation for his wife's religious practices should not be interpreted as evidence that he had converted.

"It is wonderful to see my wife praying, but the rumors that I have become Muslim are not true," Carlos said.

August 20, 2026 11:21 AM GMT+03:00
More From Türkiye Today