John Whaite condemns ‘disgusting’ David Beckham-Qatar World Cup deal
"Shame on him."
Bake Off and Strictly star, John Whaite, has described David Beckham’s deal with Qatar as “disgusting”.
Last year Beckham reportedly signed a reported £10 million deal to promote Qatari culture and tourism ahead of the FIFA World Cup, which starts this Sunday (20 November)
The former England footballer has faced a mounting backlash for his support for the country, with many seeing it as extremely disappointing given Beckham’s previous positive remarks and stance when it comes to the LGBTQ community.
Speaking to Metro at the TV Choice Awards on Monday (14 November) Whaite said: “I think it’s disgusting, he’s cheapening himself.
“I think he has the power to make great change in this world. Millions if not billions of eyes are on him, and he’s making the wrong step right now.”
In a final blow, John added: “So shame on him.”
The Strictly star is the celebrity to condemn Beckham’s position. Over the weekend the comedian Joe Lycett took to social media to call the former footballer out.
Lycett threatened to shred £10,000 one week from Sunday 13 November if Beckham doesn’t end his multimillion-pound deal with Qatar.
The comedian proposed: “If you end your relationship with Qatar I’ll donate this £10,000 of my own money – that’s a grand for every million you’re reportedly getting – to charities that support queer people in football.”
While Beckham has remained silent on the issue of LGBTQ and human rights in Qatar so far, many in the footballing world have been speaking against Qatar’s World Cup hosting including England footballer Beth Mead and Australia’s Josh Cavallo.
In Qatar, homosexuality is illegal and can be punishable with prison sentences and even death under Sharia law.
The FIFA World Cup will be held from 20 November to 18 December 2022.