Chris Kamara voices concern over Qatar World Cup amid human rights backlash: ‘You can’t ignore what’s happened’

Chris Kamara has expressed his uncertainty over this year’s World Cup being held in Qatar but wouldn’t miss the global event ‘for the world.’

The highly-anticipated FIFA tournament is in a matter of days, however, the location has been met with intense scrutiny due to the country’s treatment of local workers, and its criminalisation of same-sex marriage.

While some high-profile individuals have spoken out against Qatar hosting this year, including Lioness Beth Mead and commentator Gary Lineker – who recently slammed the foreign secretary’s warning to LGBTQ+ football fans to be ‘respectful’ in the country’ – people including David Beckham have taken on roles promoting the competition.

England will be looking to win their first major trophy since 1966, but Gareth Southgate’s men will face tough opposition from the likes of France, Germany, Spain, Brazil and Argentina.

Football pundit Chris, aka Kammy, explained that while the ‘rules are not good’ he still wants to support England.

Speaking to Metro.co.uk at Tuesday’s ITV Palooza, he said: ‘I had a decision whether I go to the World Cup or not, and I openly said if England get to the final I will go.

Chris Kamara plans to attend the World Cup if England make it to the final (Picture: Shutterstock)

This year’s tournament has been met with intense backlash (Picture: AFP )

‘You can’t ignore what’s happened, but then again, do we take it as football, the World Cup, and then worry about the other things going on?’

The 64-year-old continued: ‘I don’t know… I’m not a politician, I’m a football person, not sure I want to see the WC in Qatar but then I wouldn’t miss it for the world, so damned if you do, and damned if you don’t.’

Earlier this week comedian Joe Lycett called out David Beckham to terminate his position as Qatar ambassador relationship before the event commences.

David Beckham has been called out for his partnership with Qatar (Picture: Getty)

In August, Beckham confirmed his reported £10million deal with an advert promoting Qatar tourism released in September ahead of the major sporting event. 

‘If you end your relationship with Qatar, I will donate ten grand of my own money (that’s a grand for every million you’re reportedly getting) to charities that support queer people in football. 

‘If you end your relationship with Qatar, I will donate ten grand of my own money (that’s a grand for every million you’re reportedly getting) to charities that support queer people in football. 

‘However, if you do not, I will throw the money into a shredder at midday next Sunday, just before the opening ceremony of the World Cup and stream it right here. Not just the money, but also your status as gay icon will be shredded. 

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‘Also, you’ll be forcing me to commit what might be a crime. Although even then, I reckon I’ll get off more lightly than I would if I got caught whacking off a lad in Doha. The choice is yours. I look forward to hearing from you.’

Joe recently expressed that his ultimatum still stands as he tweeted on Wednesday, and asked whether he should expect ‘radio silence’ from the ex-footballer.

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‘I openly said if England get to the final I will go.’