Steve Sarkisian of Texas and wife Loreal jointly announce plans to divorce: 'We want to remain best friends'

American football coach Steve Sarkisian recently shared some personal news. He and his wife, Loreal, are separating.

In a joint statement, Steve and Loreal described their split as amicable. Despite their decision to file for divorce, the soon-to-be ex-couple said they were working to “remain the best of friends.”

“After many heartfelt conversations, we have decided to amicably separate and jointly file for divorce,” the statement read. “We wish to remain the best of friends and are incredibly grateful for the love and support we have shared throughout our journey together.”

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Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian speaks during SEC Football Media Days at the Omni Dallas Hotel on July 17, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. (Tim Warner/Getty Images)

The two also discussed the demands of their respective careers. According to the Houston Chronicle, Loreal works as a professional wardrobe stylist.

“Our commitments to our respective careers have made it difficult to prioritize our time for each other and this step will provide us with the time and space we need professionally while continuing to support each other personally.”

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They concluded their statement by thanking their supporters and asking for understanding and respect for privacy.

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

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian meets his wife Loreal Sarkisian after the 37-10 win over Rice at Royal-Memorial Stadium on Saturday, September 2, 2023 in Austin. (Aaron E. Martinez / American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK)

Steve and Loreal married in 2020. Steve was then Nick Saban's offensive coordinator at Alabama. The couple moved to Austin in 2021 after Sarkisian was named head coach at Texas. Loreal has regularly appeared at Longhorns football games to support Sarkisian and the team over the past few years.

Loreal attended North Carolina A&T University and was a decorated track and field athlete. She became an assistant coach at Southern California in 2013. Sarkisian returned to USC as the Trojans' head football coach prior to the 2014 season.

Loreal Sarkisian, wife of Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, waves the horns in the end zone before the game against Alabama at Royal Memorial Stadium on September 10, 2022. (Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK)

Texas finished 5-7 under Sarkisian in 2021. But, the team improved in 2022 and finished with eight wins.

Sarkisian continues to prepare the Longhorns for their inaugural season in the Southeastern Conference.

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The Longhorns are coming off a College Football Playoff semifinal appearance and were ranked second in the SEC's preseason rankings this year. The Georgia Bulldogs finished atop the conference's preseason rankings.

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