David Beckham is set to become the face of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, with the England icon set to give the controversial hosts a big PR boost ahead of next year's finals.
According to The Sun, Beckham will sign an astonishing 10-year deal worth £15million a year to become the country's ambassador.
The decision to award the World Cup to the small Middle Eastern country was met with plenty of opposition, due to the country's poor human rights record and the widespread claims of corruption concerning the bid itself.
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It is the first World Cup to be held in the northern hemisphere winter, creating further opposition among fans at the disruption of the club football calendar halfway through the season.
Homosexuality is also illegal in the country, but the Manchester United legend was assured that fans would be allowed to display rainbow flags in the stadium and LGBTQ fans would be safe - reportedly a big factor in his decision to accept the offer.
"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," a source told The Sun.
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"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."
Beckham has previous links with the Arab nation after a spell at Paris Saint Germain - owned by the Qatar Investment Authority.
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He believes that the sport can bring people together and create a more inclusive environment in the traditionally conservative Gulf state.
"David has always talked about the power of football as a force for good on many levels", a spokesman for Beckham added.
"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."
Topics: LGBTQ, Manchester United, David Beckham, England, Qatar, World Cup, Paris Saint Germain