Texas football coach Steve Sarkisian and his wife, Loreal, have announced their separation after three years of marriage. The couple cited work demands and the need for personal space.
In a joint statement released on Wednesday, Texas football coach Steve Sarkisian and his wife, Loreal, announced their amicable separation and joint decision to file for divorce. The couple emphasized their commitment to remain "the best of friends" and expressed gratitude for the love and support they have shared throughout their journey together.
"After many heartfelt conversations, we have decided to amicably part ways and jointly file for divorce," the statement read. "We aim to remain the best of friends and are incredibly grateful for the love and support we have shared throughout our journey together."
Texas Football Coach Steve Sarkisian and Wife Loreal Amicably Split Ways
The Sarkisians acknowledged the demands of their respective careers as a contributing factor to their decision. Loreal is a professional wardrobe stylist with a busy schedule, while Steve is the head coach of the Texas Longhorns, a demanding role that requires significant time and dedication.
The couple stated, "Our commitments to our respective careers made it difficult to prioritize time for each other and this step will provide us with the necessary time and space professionally while continuing to support each other personally."
Texas Football Coach Steve Sarkisian and Wife Loreal Amicably Split Ways
They thanked their supporters for their understanding and privacy during this transition, asking for respect as they embark on this new chapter in their lives.
Steve and Loreal Sarkisian tied the knot in 2020 when Steve was the offensive coordinator under Nick Saban at Alabama. They relocated to Austin in 2021 after Sarkisian was named the head coach at Texas. Loreal has been a regular presence at Longhorns football games, cheering on her husband and the team.
Texas Football Coach Steve Sarkisian and Wife Loreal Amicably Split Ways
Prior to her marriage, Loreal was a successful track athlete who attended North Carolina A&T and later became an assistant coach at Southern California. Sarkisian also returned to USC as the Trojans' head football coach ahead of the 2014 season, which is where he met Loreal.
Under Sarkisian's leadership, the Texas Longhorns went 5-7 in 2021, but improved to 8-5 in 2022. The team is currently preparing for its inaugural season in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), considered one of the most competitive conferences in college football.
Texas Football Coach Steve Sarkisian and Wife Loreal Amicably Split Ways
Sarkisian is widely respected as a talented coach and motivator, having spent years under Nick Saban at Alabama and serving as the offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons before taking the helm at Texas.
Despite the personal challenges he faces during this difficult time, Sarkisian remains focused on leading the Longhorns to success on the field. The team was ranked No. 2 in the SEC preseason poll for 2023, trailing only the Georgia Bulldogs.
