Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to David Beckham
A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving David Beckham.
David Beckham is a celebrated former English professional footballer, currently the president and co-owner of Inter Miami CF and co-owner of Salford City. Renowned for his exceptional passing range, crossing ability, and free-kick expertise as a right winger, he's considered among the greatest midfielders of his era and a top free-kick specialist. Beckham notably won 19 major trophies and stands as the first English player to secure league titles across four countries: England, Spain, the United States, and France.
1998: Beckham's Red Card Incident in 1998 World Cup
During the 1998 World Cup, Beckham received a notorious red card after kicking out at Argentina's Diego Simeone after being fouled, leading to significant media scrutiny and criticism. This event in 1998 marked a low point in his early career.
January 2000: Beckham's Red Card with Manchester United
On January 6, 2000, Beckham received his only red card while playing for Manchester United during the FIFA Club World Championship match against Necaxa, adding to his disciplinary record.
2000: Disagreement with Ferguson and fine
In 2000, David Beckham was fined and dropped from a crucial match after Alex Ferguson was angered by Victoria Beckham's attendance at a London Fashion Week event, despite David being given permission to miss training to care for his sick son. Ferguson felt David should have been able to train if Victoria had taken care of their son that day.
February 2003: Alex Ferguson boot incident
In February 2003, tensions between David Beckham and Alex Ferguson escalated after Ferguson kicked a boot that struck Beckham in the face, causing a cut that required stitches, following an FA Cup defeat to Arsenal.
January 2004: Beckham's Red Card in Copa del Rey
On January 21, 2004, while playing for Real Madrid, Beckham received a red card in a Copa del Rey match against Valencia in Madrid, contributing to his disciplinary record with the club.
October 2004: Admission of Intentional Foul
In October 2004, David Beckham admitted to intentionally fouling Ben Thatcher in an England match against Wales to get himself booked, serving a suspension in a match he was already set to miss due to injury. He also received a red card in a league match.
2004: Extramarital Affair Allegations
In 2004, Beckham faced allegations of an extramarital affair with his former personal assistant Rebecca Loos, and later with model Sarah Marbeck, both of which he dismissed as "ludicrous."
March 2010: Beckham returns to Old Trafford
On March 10, 2010, David Beckham returned to Old Trafford, playing against Manchester United as part of AC Milan. He came on as a substitute in the 64th minute to a positive reception from the fans. He also aroused controversy for wearing a green-and-gold scarf given to him by Manchester United supporters protesting against club owner Malcolm Glazer.
September 2010: Beckham's Court Application Against Irma Nici
In September 2010, Beckham announced a court application against prostitute Irma Nici and others over claims he had sex with her. While his application was dismissed initially, the magazine later admitted the allegations were false, clarifying Beckham's reputation.
April 2013: Beckham's Red Card with Paris Saint-Germain
On April 28, 2013, Beckham received a red card while playing for Paris Saint-Germain in a match against Evian, marking one of the few disciplinary incidents during his time with the club.
2013: Beckham Not Granted Knighthood
In 2013, Beckham was not granted a knighthood, leading to frustration and discussions about his tax affairs, as revealed in leaked emails from 2015.
2015: Hack and Leak of Beckham's Personal Emails
In 2015, a Portuguese company associated with Beckham's spokesman had their server hacked, leading to the publication of Beckham's personal emails which revealed his anger at not receiving a knighthood in 2013 and concerns about his tax affairs.
November 2018: Beckham Used Mobile Phone While Driving
On November 21, 2018, Beckham was caught using a mobile phone while driving in "slowly moving" traffic, leading to legal consequences including a driving ban and a fine in May 2019.
May 2019: Beckham Banned from Driving
In May 2019, Beckham was banned from driving for six months at Bromley Magistrates Court after pleading guilty to using a mobile phone while driving in November 2018, resulting in six points on his license and a fine.
