King Charles has appointed former England footballer David Beckham as an ambassador for the King’s Foundation, previously known as the Prince’s Foundation. This decision follows a cash-for-honours scandal linked to the charity. Beckham, 49, visited King Charles at Highgrove in Gloucestershire last month, where they discussed shared interests, including rural skills and beekeeping.
The King’s Foundation, involved in educational programs for up to 15,000 people annually to create sustainable communities, faced scrutiny after allegations surfaced in 2021 that former chief executive Michael Fawcett offered to help a Saudi billionaire obtain a knighthood and UK citizenship in exchange for donations. The charity conducted an internal inquiry and the Metropolitan police investigated but took no action in 2022.
Beckham has committed to promoting the foundation's work without making a financial donation. He joins other celebrity ambassadors such as chef Raymond Blanc, TV presenter Sarah Beeny, and The Great British Sewing Bee’s Patrick Grant. Beckham expressed his enthusiasm for supporting the charity’s educational and rural skills programs.
During his visit to Highgrove, Beckham engaged with students in woodworking and embroidery courses and highlighted his personal mission to learn more about rural skills. Beckham’s involvement aims to restore and enhance the reputation of the King’s Foundation, leveraging his global influence and interest in countryside activities.