RICHARD Madeley today criticised David Beckham and Robbie Williams for following the money and supporting the World Cup in Qatar.
Becks landed a bumper £150million payday to be the face of the tournament while Robbie has plans to perform in the country.
Qatar has faced widespread condemnation for its human rights record, particularly towards women and the LGBTQ+ community.
More than 6,500 migrant workers have also died in the country since it was awarded the World Cup 10 years ago.
Discussing the celebs linked to the tournament on today’s Good Morning Britain, Richard said: “It just seems to me Robbie going to Qatar, for money, Black Eyed Peas going to Qatar, for money, and David Beckham endorsing Qatar, for money, they’re all endorsing the regime.”
When a guest argued it wasn’t fair that they had been put in this position, Richard shot back: “They don’t have to say yes. They don’t have to go.
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“No one’s forcing them to go to Qatar. What do you mean it’s unfair?”
Last year former England captain Becks, 47, signed a deal worth £15million a year over the next decade to become Qatar’s ambassador.
Before penning the deal he was assured fans would be safe and allowed to display rainbow flags in stadiums – the symbol of the LGBTQ community.
Homosexuality is illegal but application of the law — identical in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi — has become progressively more liberal. David was also informed about a growing female presence in government.
He consulted with wife Victoria, 47, whose pop band The Spice Girls famously sung about “girl power”, before signing.
A source said: “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.
“He strongly believes in the power of football to bridge differences but, crucially, has seen the progress on issues that matter.”
David, who has had links with the Qataris since he played for Paris St-Germain, will also promote tourism and culture.
The source went on: “By signing David, the hope is more westerners will be encouraged to see its beautiful beaches, vast expanses of sand dunes and incredible skyscrapers.”
A spokeswoman for David said: “David has always talked about the power of football as a force for good on many levels.
“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.”
