Former England football captain and renowned entrepreneur David Beckham is set to take on a new role this autumn, stepping into the world of publishing as guest editor of a forthcoming edition of Country Life Magazine. The special edition, due to be published on 22 October, coincides with Beckham’s 50th birthday year and will offer readers a personal insight into rural living as seen through the eyes of one of Britain’s most recognisable figures.
Country Life, which has built its reputation by celebrating the best of Britain’s countryside, has previously collaborated with high-profile guest editors. Amongst its past contributors are members of the Royal Family, including the King, the Princess Royal, and the Queen, each of whom has shared their own perspectives on country living. By inviting Beckham to curate the October issue, the magazine continues its tradition of joining forces with prominent figures passionate about rural life.
In a statement released by the magazine, Beckham expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity. “I am honoured to have been invited to guest edit an edition of a magazine that I have always admired and read,” he said. “I am really looking forward to working with the editorial team to produce an issue that will celebrate what the countryside and the great British landscape means to me and my family.” His comments highlight a personal connection to the theme, rooted in his family’s own experiences outside the city.
Beckham’s affinity with rural life is no secret to fans who follow him on social media. His Instagram account frequently features moments spent gardening, gathering home-grown vegetables, or tending to his flock of chickens. These glimpses suggest that, away from the football pitch and business ventures, the former sports star has genuinely embraced country living.
Mark Hedges, Country Life’s editor-in-chief, welcomed Beckham’s involvement. “I know he has a deep love of the countryside, which has only grown since he retired as a professional footballer, although he remains incredibly busy with his other commitments,” Hedges remarked. Indeed, Beckham maintains a packed schedule, serving as co-owner of Inter Miami CF in the United States and Salford City Football Club here in the UK, as well as supporting a number of charitable initiatives such as Unicef and The King’s Foundation. According to Hedges, Beckham’s passion for the countryside promises to bring new insights and enthusiasm to the special issue.
The Beckham-edited edition of Country Life is expected to explore the significance that rural Britain holds for its guest editor. Features will reportedly include a showcase of Beckham’s favourite countryside views, a personal recipe, and tributes to the rural artisans who have helped craft his Cotswolds home. These selections are aimed at giving readers an intimate glimpse into the various ways the British countryside has shaped both Beckham’s family life and personal identity.
The timing of this editorial role is significant for Beckham, who is also reported to be in line for a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours, according to national media. Such recognition would come in addition to his distinguished football career, which included a historic treble-winning season with Manchester United in 1998-99 and notable achievements as an England player. Beckham remains the only Englishman to have scored in three different World Cups and held the third-highest number of caps for the men’s national team, captaining his country on 59 occasions.
Beckham’s influence extends beyond sport into the worlds of business and popular culture. He has been married to pop star and fashion icon Victoria Beckham, formerly of the Spice Girls, since 1999. Together, the couple have become synonymous with British celebrity and philanthropy, with rural pursuits forming an increasing part of their public narrative.
As anticipation grows for Beckham’s guest-edited issue of Country Life, readers and fans alike are eager to see how this unique collaboration will capture the meaning and allure of Britain’s countryside. With the spotlight on his own experiences and passions, the edition promises not just to celebrate a milestone year for Beckham but also to reaffirm the value of rural life in modern Britain.