Former England international David Beckham has made his first public statement on his controversial role as ambassador to the 2022 Qatar World Cup, expressing to the American New York Times his belief that ‘sport has the potential to be a force for good in the world’. “.
The American newspaper said in an article entitled “The Silent Spokesperson of the World Cup” that Qatar was disappointed with its returns on its investments, because the former Manchester United and Real Madrid player did not appear much in public during the World Cup.
The newspaper also said that Beckham, who participated as a player in the 1998, 2002 and 2006 World Cups with the “Three Lions” national team, placed strict conditions on his appearance, and that he seemed shielded from issues related to issues such as the Qatar laws on homosexuality.
In response to the New York Times article, Beckham’s publicist released a statement saying, “David has participated in numerous World Cups and other major international tournaments as a player and ambassador, and has always believed that sport has the potential to be a force for good in the world.”
He added: “We understand that there are diverse and robust views on engagement in the Middle East, but we welcome the discussion on key issues as having been catalysed directly by the first World Cup to be held in the region.”
“We hope these talks lead to greater understanding and empathy for all people and progress is made,” the statement continued.
Initial reports indicated last year that Beckham, the 47-year-old Inter Miami owner, was receiving $180 million over 10 years to promote Qatar, but recent reports indicate he will receive around $15 million a year over three years with the extension option.
