Brazilian football icon Roberto Carlos has denied reports of his conversion to Islam, stating he has not changed his religion. Reports published on August 18th indicated that Turkish MP Ali Şahin claimed Carlos had visited him in São Paulo approximately four weeks prior and recited the Shahada, announcing his conversion. Roberto Carlos refuted these claims, stating, "I have not become a Muslim yet, but I am learning little by little. I am of another religion, and there has been a lot of talk about me becoming a Muslim, but not yet, this is incorrect." He added, "We must wait, and if something happens, I will give an interview and say it explicitly."
Rumors of Conversion and Marriage
Turkish MP Ali Şahin asserted that Sheikh Jihad Hammada, a prominent figure within Brazil's Muslim community, informed him that Roberto Carlos had been in contact for some time prior to his visit and recitation of the Shahada. Carlos, however, clarified his current religious stance. He stated, "I have not become a Muslim yet, but I am learning little by little. I am of another religion, and there has been a lot of talk about me becoming a Muslim, but not yet, this is incorrect." The former Real Madrid player emphasized that any future change in his beliefs would be announced personally and unequivocally. Carlos added, "We must wait, and if something happens, I will give an interview and say it explicitly."
Souhaila Tahiri's Background
Souhaila Tahiri stated that circulating photographs, which contributed to the rumors, were taken during a party she hosted after acquiring the Brazilian football club 'Inter de Limeira'. Ms. Tahiri is identified as a Moroccan businesswoman with involvement in sports talent management. She is also a FIFA-registered agent operating in Spain. Her professional background includes working with several notable football players. Ms. Tahiri has previously collaborated with athletes such as Luka Modrić, Nani, Lúcio, Marco Materazzi, and John Terry, according to reports.
Roberto Carlos's Career and Previous Remarks
Roberto Carlos previously described Souhaila Tahiri, the Moroccan businesswoman, as a successful individual who brought significant happiness into his life. The former Real Madrid and Brazil national team defender is widely recognized for his powerful shots and free kicks, having been part of Brazil's 2002 World Cup-winning squad. Despite recent speculation, Carlos reiterated his current religious status, stating, "I have not become a Muslim yet, but I am learning little by little. I am of another religion, and there has been a lot of talk about me becoming a Muslim, but not yet, this is incorrect." He added, "We must wait, and if something happens, I will give an interview and say it explicitly."
Denials and Future Statements
Souhaila Tahiri, the Moroccan businesswoman, has denied reports of her marriage to Roberto Carlos. Separately, the former Brazilian footballer reiterated his current religious stance. Roberto Carlos stated in Arabic, "لم أصبح مسلما بعد، لكنني أتعلم شيئا فشيئا. أنا من ديانة أخرى، وقد كثر الحديث حول موضوع أنني أصبحت مسلما، لكن ليس بعد، هذا غير صحيح" (I have not become a Muslim yet, but I am learning little by little. I am of another religion, and there has been a lot of talk about me becoming a Muslim, but not yet, this is incorrect). He further added, "علينا الانتظار، وإن حصل شيء فسأُجري مقابلة وأقول ذلك صراحة" (We must wait, and if something happens, I will give an interview and say it explicitly).