David Beckham Reveals the One Thing He Wishes He Could Change About His Three World Cup Appearances
David Beckham’s World Cup legacy is unforgettable for fans around the world—but the soccer icon admits there’s one thing he’d go back and change if he had the chance.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Beckham opened up about his unforgettable experiences representing England in the 1998, 2002 and 2006 tournaments. The retired superstar shared that while he made history as the only English player to score in three separate World Cups, he wishes he had appreciated those moments more deeply.
“Whenever you go through major life moments, it’s hard to take it all in,” the 50-year-old tells PEOPLE as part of his new partnership with Verizon for the 2026 World Cup. “If I could change anything, I’d tell my younger self to really enjoy the moment.”
Beckham—who played for legendary clubs including Manchester United, Real Madrid, AC Milan, LA Galaxy and Paris Saint-Germain—says the magnitude of World Cup competition didn’t fully hit him until after he retired in 2013.
“I miss my football days so much,” Beckham admits. “I didn’t realize just how much I would miss it until it was gone.”
As the father of four—Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz, and Harper—Beckham is now involved in World Cup excitement in a new way. Through Verizon’s Ultimate Access to FIFA World Cup 26, he’s helping bring fans closer than ever to the action. The campaign will give Verizon customers access to thousands of free tickets across the 16 host cities in the U.S., with Canada and Mexico also hosting matches.
“There’s nothing that compares to that pitch-side feeling,” he says. “That’s why I partnered with Verizon—because this experience is something fans can’t get anywhere else.”
For Beckham, the World Cup remains the greatest honor a footballer can experience. “You’re not just competing at the highest level—you’re representing your country,” he says. “I was lucky to play in three World Cups, and I’ll always cherish those memories.”
While Beckham is now preparing to watch the 2026 tournament from the sidelines, part of him still feels the pull of the pitch. “I’m excited for next year,” he says. “But a piece of me still wishes I could be out there.”
