The World Cup for men being contested in Qatar is "disappointing," according to England striker Beth Mead.

The openly homosexual Mead does not believe that the Gulf state is the "appropriate location" to host the competition.

Because it is seen as sinful under Islamic Sharia law, homosexuality is prohibited in Qatar.

Mead, 27, said it was "the total opposite of what I think and respect" on BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour.

"I'm not going to support or advocate for it. It's sad because despite the fact that it's a football game, there isn't much respect shown on many different levels "the Arsenal forward stated.

Ahead of the tournament's commencement on November 20, Qatar, which adheres to conservative Muslim law, has been under fire for its position on same-sex couples and human rights problems.

Fining, serving up to seven years in jail, and even execution are all possible penalties for homosexuality.

Some athletes have organized nonviolent demonstrations, with England's Harry Kane and nine other European team captains donning "One Love" armbands.

Everyone is invited to go to Qatar to watch the World Cup, according to the country's World Cup organizers, who also promise that there will be no discrimination.

Nasser al Khater, the chief executive, urged tourists to "respect our culture" and said that the government will not modify its policies towards homosexuality.