David Beckham has condemned FIFA president Sepp Blatter's comments on racism in football as "appalling".

Blatter said in an interview that incidents of on-field racism should be settled between players with a handshake after the game.

The 75-year-old later released a statement claiming that he was misunderstood.

"I think the comments were appalling. A lot of people have said that," Beckham said.

"I don't think the comments were very good for this game. [Racism] can't be swept under the carpet and it can't be sorted out with just a handshake.

"I have no power over who goes or stays within FIFA and I don't wish to have, but there obviously is racism throughout soccer and life.

"Being around the England team I have seen the FA do a lot of work towards kicking racism out of the game, they have made huge strides in the last 10 or 15 years but it is still there."

Beckham was speaking ahead of LA Galaxy's MLS Final against Houston on Sunday.