David Beckham's involvement in Qatar World Cup criticised by LGBTQ+ activists
David Beckham has been criticised for his involvement in the Qatar World Cup by LGBTQ+ activists due to the country's poor human rights record, including the criminalisation of homosexuality. Singer Will Young called Beckham's reported £150m deal with the tournament's organisers "odious" and urged him to donate some of the money to LGBTQ+ charities in Qatar. Boyband Blue and singer Robbie Williams have also been criticised for accepting paycheques to perform at the tournament's celebrations. Comedian Joe Lycett initially claimed to have shredded £10,000 in protest against Beckham's involvement, but later admitted to donating the money to LGBTQ+ charities.