Sir Rod Stewart has claimed that he turned down an offer to perform in Qatar ©Getty Images

British singer Sir Rod Stewart said he rejected an offer of more than $1 million (£842,000/€1 million) to perform in Qatar last year prior to the country's hosting of the FIFA World Cup this month.

The Scottish singer declined the offer due to Qatar's human rights record and criminalisation of homosexuality.

He warned any LGBTQ+ fans planning to travel and has also stated that Iran's side should be expelled from the competition due to its Government supporting Russia in its war with Ukraine.

"I was actually offered a lot of money, over $1million, to play there 15 months ago," Sir Rod said, as reported by The Sunday Times.

"I turned it down.

"It’s not right to go.

"And the Iranians should be out too for supplying arms.

"Tell you what, supporters have got to watch out, haven't they?"

Sir Rod Stewart has also stated that Iran should be banned from the upcoming FIFA World Cup for its support of Russia in the war against Ukraine ©Getty Images
Sir Rod Stewart has also stated that Iran should be banned from the upcoming FIFA World Cup for its support of Russia in the war against Ukraine ©Getty Images

The 77-year-old's stance is contrast to several other British artists who have agreed to play in Qatar.

Robbie Williams is set to play at the Doha Golf Club on December 8, just 10 days before the World Cup final, as part of the Qatar Live series of concerts.

"I'm surprised at Robbie," said comedian Paul O'Grady, who performed as a drag queen in Britain throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, as reported by the Mirror.

"There'll be a backlash by the LGBTQ community if he does perform.

"No amount of money would get me there."

Williams also came under fire for performing at the 2018 tournament in Russia.

Fatboy Slim is due to be one of the headliners at Qatar's MDLBeast Aravia festival, along with Jorja Smith while Calvin Harris, Craig David, and Tinie Tempah are also set to perform at events during the World Cup.