David Beckham steps into Royal role for King Charles’ charity

The Former Man United legend joins The King's Foundation to boost youth and environmental programs.

David Beckham is now officially an ambassador for The King’s Foundation, a move announced by the charity on June 1. 

Founded by King Charles in 1990 during his time as the Prince of Wales, the organization aims to nurture communities where harmony between people, places, and the planet is prioritized.

In a recent visit to King Charles’ Highgrove Gardens in Gloucestershire, Beckham explored the charity’s educational offerings and participated in workshops. 

Each year, The King’s Foundation educates roughly 15,000 students and runs health and well-being programs for an additional 2,000 individuals. 

The charity is also involved in regeneration projects aimed at rejuvenating communities and preserving historic buildings both in the U.K. and internationally.

Beckham expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating, "I’m excited to be working with The King’s Foundation and to have the opportunity to help raise awareness of the charity’s work. I’ve always been keen to help young people to expand their horizons and I’m particularly looking forward to supporting the Foundation’s education programs and its efforts to ensure young people have greater access to nature." 

He added, "Having developed a love for the countryside, I’m also on a personal mission to learn more about rural skills which is so central to the Foundation’s work."

The retired soccer star, who also shares a passion for beekeeping with royals like Kate Middleton and Queen Camilla, noted, "It was inspiring to hear from the King about the work of His Majesty’s Foundation during my recent visit to Highgrove Gardens — and compare beekeeping tips!" 

During his visit, Beckham interacted with students engaged in woodworking at the Snowdon School of Furniture and those participating in the Métiers d’art Embroidery Fellowship in collaboration with CHANEL and Le19M.

Previously honored with an OBE by Queen Elizabeth for his contributions to soccer in 2003, Beckham has long been associated with the royal family, attending significant events such as the royal weddings of Prince William to Kate Middleton and Prince Harry to Meghan Markle. Following the Queen's passing in September 2022, Beckham joined thousands of mourners, standing in line for 12 hours in London to pay his respects.