Roberto Carlos denies rumors of conversion to Islam

Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos has denied widespread reports that he converted to Islam. The rumors gained international attention after Turkish lawmaker Ali Şahin claimed, citing Sheikh Jihad Hammadeh, that the former Real Madrid star had recited the shahada in São Paulo approximately four weeks ago.

Carlos addressed the speculation in statements to the Saudi newspaper Okaz, stating, “I have great respect for Islam... but the rumors circulating about my conversion to Islam are untrue.” He explained that his recent wedding ceremonies were designed to honor the diverse religious backgrounds of both families; while his wife, Moroccan-born football agent Suhayla El Tahiri, is Muslim, his own family members are Catholic.

Despite the denials, the reports were fueled by social media images of his wedding ceremony, which included Islamic traditions, and public congratulations from Turkish political figures. Carlos noted that while he is not Muslim, he is learning about the faith and holds deep respect for his wife’s religious practices.