Riyad Mahrez is an Algerian professional footballer who plays as a right winger for Al-Ahli Saudi FC and captains the Algeria National Football Team. Born on 21 February 1991 in Clichy, France, Mahrez is widely regarded as one of the greatest African footballers of his generation. He enjoyed remarkable success with Leicester City FC, where he won the 2015–16 Premier League title, before claiming multiple trophies with Manchester City FC.
As one of Algeria’s most celebrated footballers, fans are eager to learn more about Riyad Mahrez’s family, including his wife, children, parents, and siblings.
Riyad Mahrez’s Wife
Riyad Mahrez is married to Taylor Ward, an English model and television personality. The couple began dating in 2020, announced their engagement in June 2021, and held an Islamic wedding ceremony in January 2022 before later celebrating their marriage with civil and formal ceremonies. Their high-profile wedding celebrations culminated in a lavish ceremony at Lake Como, Italy.
Before marrying Taylor Ward, Mahrez was married to Rita Johal. They married in 2015 and later divorced after several years together.
Although Taylor Ward occasionally shares aspects of their family life through television and social media, the couple generally keeps their home life relatively private.
Riyad Mahrez Children
Riyad Mahrez is a proud father of three daughters.
He has two daughters, Inaya and Ayla, from his marriage to Rita Johal. After marrying Taylor Ward, the couple welcomed their daughter Mila in July 2022. In 2026, Taylor Ward also announced that the couple are expecting their second child together.
Despite his busy football schedule, Mahrez has often spoken about the importance of family and regularly spends time with his daughters whenever possible.
Riyad Mahrez’s Parents and Early Life
Riyad Mahrez was born in Clichy, France, and grew up in nearby Sarcelles.
His father, Ahmed Mahrez, was originally from Beni Snous in Tlemcen Province, Algeria, and had played football in his home country. His mother is of Algerian and Moroccan descent, giving Mahrez a rich North African heritage.
One of the defining moments of Mahrez’s childhood came when his father died of a heart attack while Riyad was only 15 years old. Mahrez has said that this tragic loss motivated him to work even harder to achieve his dream of becoming a professional footballer.
His parents’ influence, especially his father’s love for football, played a major role in shaping his career and his decision to represent Algeria internationally.
Riyad Mahrez’s Siblings
Riyad Mahrez comes from a close-knit family and has three siblings.
His siblings are reported to be:
Wahid (or Walid) Mahrez (brother)
Dounya Mahrez (sister)
Innes Mahrez (sister)
While his siblings generally avoid the public spotlight, they have supported Mahrez throughout his football career and have occasionally appeared alongside him during family celebrations.
How Family Influenced Riyad Mahrez’s Career
Family has always been central to Riyad Mahrez’s success.
His father’s football background inspired him to pursue the sport from a young age, while his mother’s support helped him remain focused after his father’s passing. The loss of Ahmed Mahrez became a turning point in Riyad’s life, strengthening his determination to succeed.
Mahrez has also remained deeply connected to his Algerian roots. Although he was born and raised in France, he chose to represent Algeria internationally, honoring his father’s homeland and his family’s heritage.
Today, as a husband and father, Mahrez continues to balance his successful football career with his family responsibilities.
FAQ About Riyad Mahrez’s Family
Who is Riyad Mahrez’s wife?
Riyad Mahrez is married to Taylor Ward, an English model and television personality. They married in 2022 after becoming engaged in 2021.
Was Riyad Mahrez previously married?
Yes. Before marrying Taylor Ward, Mahrez was married to Rita Johal, and they have two daughters together.
How many children does Riyad Mahrez have?
Riyad Mahrez has three daughters: Inaya, Ayla, and Mila. In 2026, he and Taylor Ward also announced they are expecting another child.
Who are Riyad Mahrez’s parents?
His father was Ahmed Mahrez, an Algerian from Beni Snous, while his mother is of Algerian and Moroccan descent.
Does Riyad Mahrez have siblings?
Yes. He has one brother and two sisters: Wahid (Walid), Dounya, and Innes Mahrez.
Where was Riyad Mahrez born?
He was born in Clichy, France, on 21 February 1991.
Which national team does Riyad Mahrez represent?
He captains the Algeria National Football Team.
Miguel Manjate is a football journalist and editor covering the Premier League, European competitions, and transfer news, with a strong focus on match analysis and data-driven reporting.
