Brazilan Legen Roberto Carlos Reportedly Converted to Islam after marrying a Muslim

Legendary Brazilian footballer Roberto Carlos has embraced Islam, according to statements made by Ali Şahin, a Turkish Member of Parliament representing Gaziantep for the Justice and Development Party (AKP). The announcement followed official meetings held in São Paulo, Brazil, where the Turkish politician met with prominent figures within the local South American Muslim community.

In a statement shared via his official social media channels, Mr Şahin detailed his meeting with Sheikh Jihad Hammadeh, who serves as the Deputy Chairman and Religious Advisor of the Brazilian Association of Islamic Jurists (ANAJI). Sheikh Hammadeh, who also holds a leadership position at the Brazilian Islamic Charitable Youth Association, is widely recognised as an influential figure within global Islamic organizations. According to Mr Şahin, the cleric confirmed that the former Real Madrid and Fenerbahçe defender had been in dialogue with religious leaders for several months prior to his formal conversion.

During their discussions in São Paulo, Sheikh Hammadeh revealed that Roberto Carlos visited him personally four weeks prior to the meeting. During this visit, the iconic left-back formally recited the Shahada—the Islamic declaration of faith—to officially enter the religion. The private ceremony marked the culmination of an ongoing personal journey and contact between the footballer and local religious authorities in Brazil.

The 51-year-old former international sportsman, who enjoyed a celebrated career across European and South American club football, has personal ties to the Islamic world through his family life. He is married to Süheyla Tahiri, a Spanish businesswoman of Moroccan descent. Despite the widespread public announcement made by the Turkish parliamentarian, neither Roberto Carlos nor his personal representatives have issued a public statement regarding his faith.

Roberto Carlos remains one of the most decorated and recognizable figures in world sports history. Renowned for his formidable free-kicks, speed, and attacking prowess from the left-back position, he earned 125 caps for the Brazilian national team, winning the FIFA World Cup in 2002. At club level, his most prominent spell came during an eleven-season tenure with Real Madrid, where he claimed three UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga trophies. Turkish sports fans also remember him fondly for his stint with Istanbul-based Fenerbahçe between 2007 and 2009, during which he became a beloved figure among local supporters.