Roberto Carlos Did Not Convert to Islam, Says Wife Souhaila Tahiri, Recounting Her Moroccan Roots and Football Memories
Translated from Arabic, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Roberto Carlos' wife, Souhaila Tahiri, denied reports that the former Brazilian footballer converted to Islam.
- Tahiri, who is of Moroccan descent, stated her deep connection to Morocco and her desire to contribute to its youth.
- She discussed her gradual entry into football management and emphasized the importance of continuous self-investment and building professional reputation.
Souhaila Tahiri, wife of former Brazilian football star Roberto Carlos, has refuted widespread rumors suggesting her husband's conversion to Islam. Addressing the circulating narratives and media reports, Tahiri, who has Moroccan roots, clarified the situation in an exclusive interview.
My connection to Morocco is very deep, it is an essential part of my identity and my formation.
Tahiri expressed a profound connection to Morocco, describing it as a fundamental part of her identity and upbringing. "My connection to Morocco is very deep, it is an essential part of my identity and my formation," she stated. As a Spanish citizen of Moroccan descent, she feels immense pride in her heritage and the values instilled by her family. Despite her international career spanning Europe, Africa, and the Arab world, Morocco has always remained significant in her life. She feels a moral responsibility to leverage her international experience to benefit her country and create new opportunities for Moroccan youth.
She detailed her gradual immersion into the world of football, beginning with professional and institutional relationships and international sports projects. This evolved into work focused on project management, strategy, representation, and organizing sports events. Tahiri highlighted that football today is more than just a game; it's a global industry integrating sports, economics, investment, communication, and international relations. Her keys to success, she believes, are continuity, discipline, commitment, and quiet hard work, emphasizing that success is not achieved overnight. She also stressed the importance of understanding diverse cultures and building trust in international dealings.
I don't believe in quick success or easy arrival. For me, continuity, discipline, commitment to one's word, and working silently are the foundation.
Regarding her relationship with Roberto Carlos, Tahiri preferred to keep the details private, valuing personal privacy, especially for public figures. She acknowledged meeting him within the football world and expressed admiration for his personality and extensive experience in the sport. Tahiri is currently working on several projects aimed at giving Moroccan and African talent a significant role.
I prefer to keep the details of our relationship away from the media. For me, privacy is very important, especially when it comes to well-known people.
Originally published by Hespress in Arabic. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.