David Beckham set to sign £150m deal to become the face of the Qatar World Cup
Cameron Smith
- Updated: 24 Oct 2021 10:16 BST
- 3 min read
David Beckham is set to earn a huge £150 million to become the face of the Qatar World Cup and help boost the country's image.
Beckham, who owns American side Inter Miami, is reportedly set to be announced as the face of the tournament next month.
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He will become Qatar's ambassador, which will hence result in him becoming the face of the 2022 World Cup, and Beckham will promote tourism and culture in the country.
This has been reported by The Sun, and considering Beckham's close relationship with the Qatari president of Paris Saint-Germain, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, after his brief time at the Parisian club, it's perhaps no surprise that he has chosen as the ideal candidate for the job.
The ethical nature of this upcoming World Cup has been questioned, with rights for women and the LGBTQ community in Qatar heavily criticised. However, The Sun have reported that Beckham has been told that fans will be permitted to display rainbow flags in the stadiums.
What has been said?
A source told The Sun: "David believes in Qatar’s commitment to progress and that the World Cup — the first to be held in the Arab world — can effect significant positive change.
"He strongly believes in the power of football to bridge differences but, crucially, has seen the progress on issues that matter.
"By signing David, the hope is more westerners will be encouraged to see its beautiful beaches, vast expanses of sand dunes and incredible skyscrapers."
Manchester United legend Beckham is an icon of the sport, so securing his services to act as an ambassador and promoter for Qatar is most certainly a coup.
The report reveals that the deal and role is for the next decade, with the £150m being payment for all 10 years.
A spokesperson for Beckham also spoke to The Sun, and said this: "David has always talked about the power of football as a force for good on many levels.
"As we reach the one year to go point he will join the wider football community that is coming together for the World Cup 2022 and he’s looking forward to what he thinks will be a great tournament."
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