Former England international David Beckham made his first public statement about his controversial role as ambassador to the Qatar 2022 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 in public much during the World Cup.
The newspaper also claimed that Beckham, who participated as a player in the 1998, 2002 and 2006 World Cups with the “Three Lions” national team, set strict conditions for his appearance, and that he seemed protected from questions related to issues such as Qatar’s laws regarding homosexuality.
In response to the New York Times article, Beckham’s press office issued a statement saying, “David has participated in a number of 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 different and robust views on engagement in the Middle East, but we find it positive that discussion on key issues has been directly catalyzed by the first World Cup to be held in the region.”
“We hope that these talks will lead to more understanding and empathy towards all people and that progress will be made,” the statement continued.
Initial reports indicated last year that Beckham, the 47-year-old owner of Inter Miami, was receiving $180 million over 10 years to promote Qatar, but recent reports indicate that he will receive about $15 million annually for three years with Extension option.