Pop stars and Qatar: Dua Lipa would not sing at the World Cup opening ceremony, Rod Stewart refused millions of dollars

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Dua Lipa performing in Australia: wants to cheer on England from afar

Photo: Don Arnold/Getty Images

Pop singer Dua Lipa (»Cold Heart«) has made it clear that she has no plans to perform at the controversial World Cup in Qatar and pointed to the human rights situation in the country.

"I will not be performing, nor have I ever been involved in any negotiations for a gig," wrote the 27-year-old Brit on Instagram.

She is reacting to "numerous speculations" that she will sing at the opening ceremony next Sunday in Qatar.

"I look forward to visiting Qatar when the country has fulfilled all the human rights pledges it made when it was named to host the World Cup," Dua Lipa said.

The Grammy winner apparently doesn't want to boycott the tournament entirely: "I'll be cheering on England from afar," wrote the singer.

"Cockney Scotsman" Stewart: "I Declined"

The tournament in Qatar is controversial for a variety of reasons.

Among other things, the emirate has been heavily criticized for human rights violations and the working conditions of foreign construction workers.

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Rod Stewart: Favors Brazil

Photo: JEFF J MITCHELL / Getty Images

Rod Stewart was also critical of the World Cup in Qatar.

In an interview with the London Times, he expressed concern for football fans traveling to the Gulf.

"I was offered a lot of money for a gig 15 months ago," said the 77-year-old, "more than a million dollars.

I declined.” It's just not right.

At the World Cup, he won't keep his fingers crossed for England, but for Brazil: "I'm a Cockney Scot."

Scotland did not qualify for the finals.

According to Stewart, a qualifying country shouldn't be included: "The Iranians should be out because they're supplying arms." Apparently he's referring to reports of Iranian drones being used by Russia in its war against Ukraine.

On the other hand, a member of the South Korean boy band BTS has confirmed that the ceremony before the opening game between Qatar and Ecuador will take place: Jung Kook will perform at Al Bayt Stadium on November 20, as announced on BTS' social media channels .

feb/dpa