METZINGEN (dpa-AFX) - Fashion retailer Hugo Boss is bringing "icon" David Beckham on board as a designer. The former professional soccer player will help design next year's men's collection, the Metzingen-based company announced on Thursday. The first collection will be presented in spring/summer 2025, although Beckham will already be featured in the brand's global fall/winter campaign this year. The partnership is set to run for several years, said a company spokeswoman. It goes well beyond 2025. Hugo Boss shares rose by up to 3.5 percent, their highest level in two weeks.

"David Beckham is a true global icon in both sport and fashion. With his strong entrepreneurial spirit and authentic passion for fashion, he perfectly embodies the values of our Boss brand," said Hugo Boss CEO Daniel Grieder. In the statement, Beckham is quoted as saying: "In recent years I have wanted to invest more time in design and fashion, but wanted to ensure I was working with a brand and team that could deliver something truly global and impactful."

David Beckham is considered a style icon and has in the past launched an underwear collection himself and modeled for luxury labels. He has been married to Victoria Beckham since 1999. They have four children together./tat/DP/men