MOSCOW: Former captain of England's national football team David Beckham is set to become the face of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, in a deal worth GBP150 million (US$206.4 million), Sputnik quoted The Sun newspaper report on Sunday.
The 46-year-old has agreed to become the Middle Eastern nation's ambassador, making GBP15 million per year over the next decade under the deal, the tabloid reported.
The World Cup 2022 in Qatar has been shrouded by controversy since the beginning due to concerns over alleged human rights violations in the country's construction sites, as well as Qatar's attitude towards women and the LGBT community. The football star, however, was assured that fans in Qatar would be safe and allowed to display rainbow flags in stadiums, according to The Sun.
Before signing the multi-million contract, the ex-footballer consulted with his wife, Victoria, the newspaper said.
Qatar has become the first Arab nation to host a football World Cup. The tournament will be held from Nov 21 to Dec 18, 2022.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Mon Oct 25 2021
Beckham has agreed to become the Middle Eastern nation's ambassador, making GBP15 million per year over the next decade under the deal. - REUTERS
Trump administration is pointing spy satellites at US border
Trump admin orders spy agencies to use satellites on US-Mexico border in crackdown on illegal immigration & drug cartels.
Musk says he will finish most of $1 trillion federal cost cuts within weeks
Elon Musk says he would finish most of the work to cut $1 trillion in federal spending when his tenure ends in as soon as 64 days.
US car buyers face higher prices, less choice under Trump's tariffs
Trump says tariffs will boost US production, but analysts warn theyll impact automakers' choices and raise costs for consumers.
Rohingya in Bangladesh face dire consequences if aid money drops, say UN agencies
UNHCR & IOM warn as they launch a joint appeal for food, education aid for Rohingya fleeing Myanmar violence for eight years.
Malaysia’s EPF Spotlighted in WEF Longevity Economy Report as global model for retirement reform
Malaysia gains WEF 2025 spotlight for leading inclusive, tech-driven retirement reforms amid global ageing challenges.
Amendment to Education Act: Reduce student dropout rate, increase enrolment
MOE adds a rule holding parents accountable for ensuring kids complete primary and secondary education.
Trump orders elimination of 'anti-American ideology' from Smithsonian institutions
The Republican president, in an executive order, directed that Vice President JD Vance undertake the action.
US Defense Secretary reaffirms 'ironclad commitment' to the Philippines
Pete Hegseth, Marcos Jr. reaffirm strong US-Philippines ties, stressing peace amid China's growing threats in the Indo-Pacific.
Myanmar junta declares state of emergency in multiple regions following strong earthquake
Ruling military says will make inquiries on the situation quickly and conduct rescue operations along with providing humanitarian aid.
Detention of South Sudan's VP Machar cancels peace deal, his party says
The U.N. peacekeeping mission in South Sudan called for restraint, saying the country stood on the brink of relapsing into widespread conflict.
At least three dead after mosque partially collapses in Myanmar earthquake, eyewitnesses say
A mosque in Myanmar partially collapsed when the strong earthquake struck the Southeast Asian nation.
Thai capital declared disaster area after quake, city hall says
The Bangkok governor has been placed in charge of coordinating the disaster response, it's city hall says.
Aidilfitri: Taxpayers advised to check, settle tax arrears before planning overseas travel
Individuals and businesses with unpaid tax arrears may face restrictions on their ability to leave Malaysia.
Putin suggests temporary administration for Ukraine to end war
Vladimir Putin proposes temporary administration in Ukraine for new elections and key accords to settle the war.
Rubio says US may have revoked more than 300 visas
Every time I find one of these lunatics, I take away their visas, says US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
![[COLUMNIST] Are public policies attached to the public?](https://resizer-awani.eco.astro.com.my/tr:w-177,h-100,q-100,f-auto/https://img.astroawani.com/2025-03/41743133254_tbPublicPoliciesG.jpg "[COLUMNIST] Are public policies attached to the public?")
[COLUMNIST] Are public policies attached to the public?
Evidence-based policy is key in discourse, requiring rigorous analysis of public impact, especially stakeholders' opinions.
Strong earthquake strikes Southeast Asia, buildings collapse in Myanmar
The epicentre was about 17.2 km from the city of Mandalay, which has a population about 1.2 million, according to USGS.
Lula slams US tariffs, threatens to take reciprocal measures
Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva warns his country ould take reciprocal trade measures against the US.
Malaysia urges citizens to leave South Sudan as security situation worsens
Wisma Putra urges Malaysians to leave immediately while commercial flights are still operating.
Sudan's army shells Omdurman in push to oust RSF from capital region
RSF controls parts of Omdurman and has fortified west Sudan, dividing the nation into rival zones.