23.07.2024 10:00
The football legend Diego Maradona's jersey worn in the 1986 World Cup semi-final is being put up for auction by Sotheby's. Valued at 900,000 pounds, Maradona scored two goals in the match where Argentina defeated Belgium 2-0. The jersey, which was gifted to Belgian goalkeeper Pfaff after the match, has been kept hidden for many years and is now being offered for auction after being displayed.
The jersey worn by football legend Diego Maradona in the 1986 World Cup semi-final will be put up for auction. Sotheby's auction house estimates that the value of this historic piece could exceed 900,000 pounds.
This high value estimate comes after Maradona's famous "Hand of God" goal jersey, worn against England in the same tournament, was sold for 7.2 million pounds last year.
Maradona contributed to Argentina's 2-0 victory over Belgium in the semi-final match by scoring two goals while wearing this jersey, and then led his team to victory against West Germany in the final. After the match, Maradona gifted his jersey to Belgian goalkeeper Jean-Marie Pfaff, with the note "To Great Jean-Marie, with all my love" written on it.
Pfaff kept the jersey for nearly forty years before displaying it in a temporary museum last year, and has now decided to put it up for sale. Pfaff, who said "Competing against one of the greatest players in football was an honor, but seeing him as a friend was even more special," expressed that sharing this historic piece is very satisfying for him.
Brahm Watcher, a representative from Sotheby's, stated that Maradona is remembered as one of the greatest football players of all time, and they are honored to be a part of the history of this iconic World Cup jersey.
Maradona was known for his extraordinary ball control and ability to surpass opposing players, as well as his leadership qualities on the field. Maradona, who was also known for his outspokenness on social and political issues, established a foundation that operates in various fields, from child welfare to diversity and inclusivity.