A jersey worn by Argentinian soccer legend Diego Maradona sells for $9.3 million at auction.
On Wednesday, the auction house Sotheby’s announced the sale on social media, stating that the huge price tag established a new record “for any piece of sports memorabilia.”
Maradona, who died in November 2020, wore the shirt during Argentina’s 1986 World Cup quarterfinal encounter against England.
According to Sotheby’s, Maradona scored the game’s first goal with his hand, which is illegal in soccer. However, the point remained since the referees couldn’t see the goal clearly. Maradona then scored Argentina’s second goal, getting past a number of English players and scoring against goalkeeper Peter Shilton.
Maradona addressed the controversy surrounding his first goal after Argentina’s 2-1 triumph, stating it was scored “a little with Maradona’s head, and a little with God’s hand.”
Many believe Maradona’s second goal in the England match to be the “Goal of the Century,” according to Sotheby’s.
In a statement, Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s head of streetwear and contemporary collectibles, said, “The event resonated much beyond the realm of football, occurring shortly after the Falklands battle, and has, in turn, spawned novels, films, and documentaries.” “Maradona is today regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, and this game is an important part of his legacy.”
“Of course, not only was the ‘Hand of God’ goal scored in this game, but also the ‘Goal of the Century,’ generally regarded as one of the greatest individual goals of all time,” he said. “This is the first time the garment has ever been offered for sale, and Sotheby’s is thrilled to be a part of it.”
The shirt was put up for sale on behalf of Steve Hodge, an English player who requested a jersey exchange with Maradona after the game.
“I’ve been the proud owner of this garment for nearly 35 years,” Hodge said in a statement, “since Diego and I switched jerseys in the tunnel after the legendary match.” “Playing against one of the best and most spectacular football players of all time was an amazing honor.” It’s also been a joy to share it with the public at the National Football Museum, where it’s been on exhibit for the last 20 years.”
“The Hand of God jersey has significant cultural significance for the football world, the people of Argentina, and the people of England, and I’m certain that the next owner will take great delight in having the world’s most famous football shirt,” he said.
The jersey’s purchaser has remained unidentified.