Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ Ball could sell for $10 million at auction

A piece of football history could soon change hands for millions of dollars. The ball used by Diego Maradona for his infamous “Hand of God” goal against England at the 1986 FIFA World Cup is set to go under the hammer in the United States, with auctioneers expecting it to sell for around $10 million.

The historic item will be offered by Heritage Auctions between August 21 and 23, with bidding expected to begin at $2.5 million.

Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ ball heads to auction

The ball has become one of the most recognisable pieces of World Cup history because of its connection to one of the most controversial goals ever scored at the tournament.

Maradona used his hand to direct the ball into the net during Argentina's 1986 World Cup quarter-final against England.

The officials failed to detect the infringement and awarded the goal, allowing Argentina to take the lead in a match that would become one of the most famous encounters in World Cup history.

Maradona later famously described the goal as being scored partly by “the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.” The phrase became permanently associated with the Argentine icon and the controversial moment.

Argentina went on to win the 1986 World Cup

The goal was only one part of Maradona's extraordinary performance during the 1986 tournament. Argentina defeated England in the quarter-finals before eventually going on to win the World Cup.

Maradona was the central figure in Argentina's successful campaign, helping his country lift the trophy in Mexico. The “Hand of God” moment remains controversial decades later, but it has also become one of the defining images of Maradona's legendary career.

Ball could become one of Football’s Most Valuable Collectibles

Heritage Auctions expects the ball to command a price of approximately $10 million, potentially making it one of the most valuable football-related sporting memorabilia ever sold.

The auction is scheduled to take place from August 21 to 23, with the opening bid set at $2.5 million. Interest is likely to be particularly high because of the ball's direct connection to one of the most famous moments in World Cup history.

Maradona died in November 2020, but his influence on football remains enormous. The 1986 World Cup, in particular, remains closely associated with his individual brilliance and the dramatic moments that defined Argentina's triumph.

Maradona’s 1986 Shirt already holds a record

The potential $10 million sale would also come close to the record established by another piece of memorabilia from the same match. The shirt Maradona wore during Argentina's quarter-final victory over England previously sold for $9.3 million, making it the most expensive football shirt ever sold.

The possibility of the “Hand of God” ball exceeding that figure would further underline the extraordinary financial and historical value attached to Maradona's 1986 World Cup legacy.

For collectors, the upcoming auction offers the rare opportunity to own an object directly connected to one of the most debated and unforgettable moments in football history.

SportsLigue