According to Footmercato, the 1986 World Cup match ball known as the "Hand of God" will be auctioned in the United States from August 21 to 23, with a starting bid of $2.5 million.
The football associated with one of the most iconic moments in World Cup history is about to change hands. It was used in the 1986 quarter-final match between Argentina and England, in which Argentina won 2-1.
In that match, Diego Maradona scored the famous "Hand of God" goal with this very ball. This item will be auctioned in the United States from August 21st to 23rd, with a starting price of $2.5 million. AFP estimates its value could exceed $10 million, approximately €2.15 million.
A few minutes later, Maradona launched a long run from his own half and scored a brilliant goal, cementing the match's place in history. This goal was then kept by Tunisian referee Ali Bennacer for over 30 years.
Ali Bennacer stated that he brought the ball back after the match and had it signed by the assistant referee. Heritage Auctions indicated that the item was later authenticated by two sports memorabilia specialists. In 2022, a jersey worn by Maradona in the same match sold for $9.3 million.
