David Beckham is truly a world football icon.
Having played over 500 games for clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid and LA Galaxy, he won almost everything there is to win in football.
He also represented his country 115 times, including at three FIFA World Cups. However, his role at the World Cup in Qatar is causing controversy.
The Sporting News details why it is causing such a stir.
MORE: England's World Cup squad for Qatar tournament
Is David Beckham part of Qatar World Cup?
At the end of 2021, David Beckham signed a 10-year deal worth a reported £150 million (USD $170 million) to be an ambassador for Qatar.
This includes promoting Qatari culture and tourism, as well as the upcoming World Cup taking place in the country this month.
In August, he appeared in a 30-minute promotional video that highlighted some of the landmarks and tourists spots in Qatar's capital Doha.
Beckham also visited the country in November 2021 to meet with Qatari dignitaries and officials involved in organising the tournament.
“There is a rich history here and a love of the game, and that will be very evident when the tournament starts. People will see a football culture that has been here for a long time. And once the tournament finishes, the legacy will be there for everyone to see.”:
— The Peninsula Qatar (@PeninsulaQatar) November 8, 2022
David Beckham pic.twitter.com/K3uqEpMo2W
Why David Beckham's Qatar ambassador role is controversial
David Beckham's role in advocating Qatar and their World Cup is controversial due to concerns surrounding the country's human rights record, as well as their treatment of LGBTQ+ fans.
Many stories have emerged that have alleged mistreatment of migrant workers in the country.
A report from The Guardian claimed that more than 6,500 migrant workers had died in Qatar building stadiums, roads and hotels needed for the tournament.
Activists within the country advocating on behalf of the migrant workers have also been arrested, with Kenyan security guard and activist Malcolm Bidali being arrested and eventually deported last year; he was arrested for 'broadcasting and publishing false news with the intent of endangering the public system of the state'.
There are also concerns over how LGBTQ+ people are treated within the country.
Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar, and the country refuses to recognise same-sex marriage or civil partnerships.
Qatar has denied the claims made by The Guardian over the number of migrant workers who have died, and have also stated that all fans, including LGBTQ+ fans will be welcome in the country to watch the tournament.
David Beckham World Cup 1998
Back when he was a player, Beckham was also involved in one of the 1998 World Cup's most notable moments.
In England's round of 16 match against Argentina, Beckham was sent off early in the second-half for kicking the heel of Argentina's Diego Simeone.
On This Day in 1998: David Beckham is sent off for kicking Diego Simeone as England lost to Argentina at World Cup. pic.twitter.com/GjUUrwkbvG
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) June 30, 2016
England went on to lose the match on penalties, and Beckham received heavy amounts of criticism from fans and journalists as he was blamed for their elimination.
This included the hanging of an effigy outside a pub in London, as well as death threats.
