Former England captain David Beckham is set to be honoured with 2018 UEFA President’s Award in recognition of his achievements in the game and his work since retiring as a player.
This was disclosed by the European football’s governing body.
Beckham, 43, who is a former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder, will receive the award in Monaco later this year.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin explained the reason for the honour.
“I have chosen David Beckham as the recipient of this year’s award because he has been a global ambassador for football, promoting the game and all its values in every corner of the planet.
“His tireless humanitarian efforts, which have helped the lives of many children around the world, should also be celebrated. Beckham is a true football icon of his generation.”
Back in 1999, Beckham won the Champions League with United and later played for Los Angeles Galaxy, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain after leaving Madrid and retired in 2013.
Earlier this year he was warded an MLS franchise in Miami.
“During my career, I always gave 100 percent and tried to uphold the values of teamwork and fair play and I am proud to join the illustrious list of players who have previously won this award,” said Beckham,
“Many of the unforgettable moments I had on the pitch came in the UEFA Champions League such as that magic night in Barcelona in 1999 when we beat Bayern Munich in such dramatic fashion.”
Former Italy star Franceso Totti won last year’s UEFA President Award. Franz Beckenbauer and the late Johan Cruyff are some of the recipients of the award.