• London 2012

Beckham: Torch should be lit by an Olympian

ESPN staff
July 13, 2012
David Beckham will not light the Olympic torch © PA Photos
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David Beckham ruled himself out of lighting the torch at the London 2012 Olympics, insisting the job should be given to an Olympian.

Beckham was overlooked for the Great Britain football team, with coach Stuart Pearce preferring the likes of his former Manchester United team-mate Ryan Giggs.

After playing a key role in the bid team which brought the Games to London, it has been reported Beckham would light the flame during the opening ceremony. However, speaking after a Los Angeles Galaxy training session, Beckham claimed he will not undertake the honour.

"I've always said, lighting the torch in the stadium is something that should be done by an Olympian... who has done incredible things for our country and won gold medals," he said.

London 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe has stated Beckham will be handed "two very clear roles" at the Games.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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