Fez — Brazilian and Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos has reportedly converted to Islam in Brazil, according to a Turkish lawmaker who says he received the information from a prominent Muslim leader in São Paulo.
Ali Şahin, a member of Türkiye’s ruling Justice and Development Party, https://x.com/AliSahin501/status/2089428662747832768"> said on August 17 that Sheikh Jihad Hammadeh told him Carlos had embraced Islam approximately four weeks earlier.
Hammadeh serves as vice president and religious adviser of the National Association of Islamic Jurists in Brazil and is active within São Paulo’s Muslim community.
According to Şahin’s account, Carlos had been communicating with Hammadeh for an extended period before visiting him in Brazil.
During that meeting, the former footballer reportedly recited the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith, and chose to become Muslim.
Şahin subsequently congratulated Carlos and wished him and his family peace, health, and blessings.
Carlos has not publicly confirmed the reported conversion.
Goal website noted that no direct statement has been issued by the former Brazil international.
Reports follow marriage to Souhaila Ettahiri
The reports have attracted particular attention following Carlos’ marriage to Moroccan-rooted football agent Souhaila Ettahiri.
Spanish media announced that the pair had recently married after their relationship developed from an initially professional connection.
Goal reported that the couple held a private celebration on July 25 with relatives and close friends.
One of Brazil’s most recognizable football legends
Carlos remains one of the most celebrated defenders of his generation.
Real Madrid says the footballer made 527 appearances and 68 goals during his 11 seasons at the Spanish club between 1996 and 2007. He also won three European Cups with Madrid and earned 128 caps for Brazil.
Carlos was part of the Brazilian team that won the 2002 FIFA World Cup, a triumph Carlos described as the crowning moment of his international career.
