Just as Texas Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian is gearing up for a big SEC season, he drops a bomb. The head coach and his stylish wife, Loreal Smith, are calling it quits. Yep, you heard it right!

First, in a heartfelt post, Steve asked his supporters for their kindness before revealing the big news this Friday. He also requested privacy as they navigate this personal transition.

The Texas Longhorns head coach shared on his Instagram story, “After many heartfelt conversations, we have decided to amicably part ways and jointly file for divorce,” adding, “We aim to remain the best of friends and are incredibly grateful for the love and support we have shared throughout our journey together.” He mentioned that their busy careers have made it hard for them, noting it was “difficult to prioritize time.”

Now, Loreal is a fashion icon and a philanthropist. With her impeccable fashion sense, she has always turned heads at Longhorns events. She has also styled Steve several times, with his game-day outfits often going viral. It looks like wearing these multiple hats has kept her quite busy.

Loreal has strongly supported the 50-year-old coach ever since they met. Just a week before the divorce announcement, she posted a sweet picture of them, captioning it, “Anybody else ready for Texas Football season? I know we are! SEC here we come,” showing their excitement for the upcoming season. The couple looked adorable, with Loreal in a black dress and Steve in a white coat and a white Texas hat.

The power couple got married in 2020, and after four years of marriage, they announced their shocking plans. The Texas football coach is heading into the 2024 season facing this major life change. 

Steve Sarkisian juggling divorce and the SEC

Steve Sarkisian has a lot on his plate. First, his personal life is in upheaval with his recent divorce. Will Loreal still be the “first lady of Texas football” on the sidelines? Now, that’s a big question. But the show must go on for the workaholic coach. And he has quite a competitive season ahead! 

The Longhorns are jumping into the SEC like walking into a lion’s den. Alabama and Georgia are the kings, and Ole Miss is nipping at their heels. It won’t be easy. Even Coach Nick Saban threw some shade, saying, “What kind of tickles me is all these people asking these questions about how Texas always ran the conference they were in. They’re not gonna run the SEC.” 

Sarkisian pulled off a surprise win against legendary coach Saban last year. And anything’s possible with star players like Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning. Can he prove the doubters wrong and lead the Longhorns to SEC glory? The countdown is on. Their first game on August 31 against Colorado State will give us a hint.