David Beckham signs '£15m-a-year deal with Qatar to become face of 2022 World Cup'

INA-  SOURCES

David Beckham is set to be named as the face of the 2022 Qatar World Cup next month - making a staggering £150m in the process.
 
It has been reported the former Manchester United star has agreed a deal thought to be worth £15m-a-year over the next ten years to act as an ambassador for Qatar.
 
The ex- England captain has already spent time in the country, flying into the capital Doha earlier this month to spend seven days meeting dignitaries and visiting stadia ahead of the tournament in just over 12 months time.
 
The deal is likely to spark controversy given the country's human rights record and views towards members of the LGBTQ+ community.
 
Beckham has reportedly been informed that fans attending the spectacle next December will be allowed to display rainbow flags in stadiums and be kept safe throughout the tournament.
 
Laws in Qatar render homosexuality illegal, though the actual application of the law is thought to have become more progressive in recent years.
 
Beckham has already entertained a relationship with the Qatari state stemming from his time at Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain, he will be expected to promote tourism and celebrate the nations cultural heritage.
 
The former Three Lions legend apparently mulled over the decision with the support of his pop star-turned fashion mogul wife Victoria, formerly of the Spice Girls.
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."
A spokesperson for the former LA Galaxy midfielder explained: "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."
The decision to hand Qatar the 2022 World Cup remains a talking point more than ten years after it was awarded to them.
 
Accusations of bribery and shady deals have plagued the nations successful bid.
 
Football's world governing body FIFA are currently under fire for their proposals to stage a World Cup tournament every two years, rather than the current format of every four.