Steve Sarkisian announces divorce from wife Loreal

Steve Sarkisian and his wife, Loreal, are filing for divorce. The couple shared the news in a joint announcement on Instagram Friday night.

The Sarkisians were married in 2020 while Steve was the offensive coordinator at Alabama. After he took the Texas head coach job, they moved to Austin, and Loreal has been one of his most vocal supporters. Her game day outfits were also a staple of Texas football games over the last three years.

In a statement Friday evening, the Sarkisians said “many heartfelt conversations” factored into their decision to jointly file for divorce. They also cited their busy professional lives with their careers – Steve as a college football coach and Loreal as a wardrobe stylist – also played roles.

“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. 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.

“While we appreciate all the love and encouragement we have received, we kindly ask for your understanding and privacy during this transition as we embark on this new chapter in our lives.”

Loreal Sarkisian was a decorated track athlete at North Carolina A&T and became an assistant coach at USC in 2013 – one year before Steve Sarkisian joined the Trojans’ football staff. She now works as a wardrobe stylist, according to the Houston Chronicle.

Steve Sarkisian is currently getting ready to start his fourth training camp at Texas as the Longhorns enter a new era. They will now compete in the SEC after leaving the Big 12, and the hype continues to build. Texas came in second in the league’s preseason poll behind Georgia during media days last week with a slew of returning talent coupled with high-profile recruits. ESPN analyst Greg McElroy called it the best roster of Sarkisian’s tenure.

Last season was a special one for the Longhorns, who won one final Big 12 title. They also made their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance, which showed Sarkisian’s turnaround was going well after a 5-7 record in 2021. Texas is sure to be a CFP contender once again this year, especially with the expanding format.