Roberto Carlos conversion to Islam unconfirmed by footballer

Brazilian football legend Roberto Carlos is the subject of widespread speculation following reports that he has converted to Islam, a claim made public by a Turkish lawmaker but not confirmed by the player himself. The 53-year-old former Real Madrid and Brazil star has not issued any statement addressing the rumors, which have circulated online since August 18, 2026.

The reports gained traction after Ali Şahin, a lawmaker from Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party), announced the conversion in a social media post. Şahin stated he learned of the development from Sheikh Jihad Hammadeh, vice president and religious adviser of the National Association of Islamic Jurists (ANAJI) in Brazil, during a meeting in São Paulo. According to Şahin, Hammadeh said Carlos had been in contact with him for some time and visited him approximately four weeks prior to the announcement, when the former footballer recited the shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith. The meeting was attended by representatives from several Brazilian Muslim organizations.

The speculation is closely linked to Carlos's recent marriage to Suhayla At Tohiri, also referred to as Souheila Tahiri in some...