Reason Lionesses star didn't get sponsor money despite Ian Wright's 'pay her' demand

Arsenal legend Ian Wright ran to the defence of England Euro 2022 sensation Beth Mead when a beer company profited off her name - but there was a simple explanation to the confusion. Mead, who will have a role to play in Sunday's Euro 2025 final against Spain, collaborated with Camden Town Brewery during the last Euros tournament to release a special edition brew.

The London-based brewery revealed, following the tournament triumph, that they would be launching a limited edition drink dubbed Goalden Mead. The line referenced the Lionesses icon's accomplishments and family name, with all proceeds being donated to a charity selected by the footballer. Wright has been an outspoken advocate for the women's game and provided commentary for the last two Women's European Championships for the BBC. And he has also urged Premier League sides to increase their efforts in helping give the women's game momentum. The 61-year-old praised the decision to donate profits to charity, but he questioned whether Mead would receive payment for boosting the company's visibility and insisted they should "pay her" appropriately.

"All good and well to add the charity element to this," he wrote on X three years ago. "But has Beth been properly paid for using her name and associating her with your brand? Pay her."

England secured the UEFA Euro 2022 crown after a thrilling extra-time win over Germany. They're now looking to repeat the feat against reigning world champions Spain in a rematch of the 2023 World Cup final, which Mead missed due to injury.

Camden Town Brewery later responded to Wright's tweet, clarifying Mead was aware of the release. The company said she also picked a charity for the sales to go towards, which would suggest she would not be paid a fee.

A spokesperson told Express Sport: "We made sure Beth was aware of the beer before we made it available for our Camden and footie fans, and she even nominated the charity partner herself, so all money is going to a good cause - and we'll be matching donations."

Mead proved instrumental in England Women's Euro 2022 victory, securing UEFA's Best Player accolade following her remarkable tournament. She finished the competition with a remarkable six goals and five assists to her name as England picked up their maiden major trophy.

The Arsenal forward started the final in 2022 before Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly found the net to bank a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Germany before a record Wembley attendance. Mead, who won as a frontrunner for the 2022 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, has seen her fame surge following the tournament.

The brewery's decision to capitalise on her success comes as little shock, given the clever wordplay between her surname and the traditional honey-based alcoholic drink. Jonas Eidevall, the manager at Arsenal, showed his support for the 30-year-old by posting a screenshot on Twitter, indicating he was about to buy a pack of the £14 beer.

Mead represents Arsenal in the Women's Super League and reportedly earns a modest £25,000 annual salary. However, she received a well-earned bonus of £55,000 as part of the reward given by the FA to England's champions in 2022.

That provided a much-needed boost to the Lionesses' bank accounts after ending the country's 56-year wait for an international trophy. And they'll hope another bonus is on the horizon, provided they can clinch their revenge against La Roja in Switzerland.