2022 FIFA World Cup: Celebrities Boycotting Qatar Over LGBTQ Rights Concerns

• One global issue continues to loom large over the first-ever FIFA World Cup to be hosted in the Middle East
• The global showpiece kicks off on Sunday, with the rights of the LGBTQ community in Qatar under scrutiny
• Homosexuality is outlawed in the oil-rich Gulf state, which has caused ructions with the liberal and conservative

No matter how much FIFA tries smoothing it over, the issue of LGBTQ rights in Qatar continues to wrinkle the hype of the 2022 World Cup.

Homosexuality is illegal in the Gulf state, which has caused much awkwardness politically in the country and across the planet, as the world's eyes turn toward the Middle East.

According to Time, several public figures and celebrities have made it clear they won't attend the tournament in protest, either being overt about this or conveniently finding other reasons to not head to Qatar.

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English artist Dua Lipa said:

“I will not be performing and nor have I ever been involved in any negotiation to perform. I will be cheering England on from afar, and I look forward to visiting Qatar when it has fulfilled all the human rights pledges it made when it won the right to host the World Cup.”

Legendary rocker Rod Steward said to the Sunday Times that he was offered a million US dollars to perform during the World Cup, but declined it citing 'ethical reasons'.

Prince William was reportedly not likely to attend the tournament because of a 'busy winter schedule', though his plans could change should England advance far in the competition.

UK minister: respect Qatari laws

British foreign secretary James Cleverly has been accused of 'shockingly tone deaf' comments, after telling LGBTQ fans heading to the World Cup in Qatar to respect local laws and cultures.

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Homosexuality is illegal in the Gulf state, where the tournament begins on November 20, as reported by Sports Brief.

Cleverly told LBC Radio:

"One of the things I would say for football fans is, you know, please do be respectful of the host nation. They are trying to ensure that people can be themselves and enjoy the football, and I think with a little bit of flex and compromise at both ends, it can be a safe, secure and exciting World Cup."