Former Manchester United and Real Madrid legend David Beckham have found himself amidst some controversy after he signed a big-money deal to become the face of the Qatar World Cup in 2022. The Englishman has put pen to paper on a ten-year deal that will see him bag a whopping $277 million.
He will be unveiled next month and will become the country’s global ambassador.
View this post on Instagram
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
David Beckham and his connections with the state of Qatar.
Beckham had previously visited Doha (Qatar’s capital city) for a week and spent a lot of time with the state’s dignitaries. He also visited all of the stadiums which will be hosting the tournament in just 12 months.
Additionally, his time at Paris Saint Germain had helped him get closer to the Qatari state due to the publicity he brought to the club during its early years. Now, he’ll be helping with the promotion of tourism and celebrating Qatar’s cultural heritage.
The difference Beckham will make in Qatar’s image:
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
A source of The Sun spoke on the matter and talked about how football can be utilized to bring people together.
“David believes in Qatar’s commitment to progress and that the World Cup — the first to be held in the Arab world — can affect significant positive change. He strongly believes in the power of football to bridge differences but, crucially, has seen the progress on issues that matter,” the source said.
They also added that Beckham would help bring more eyeballs to Qatar’s beauty, both natural and otherwise.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“By signing David, the hope is more westerners will be encouraged to see its beautiful beaches, vast expanses of sand dunes, and incredible skyscrapers,” they concluded.