In a spectacular showcase of football memorabilia, six iconic Lionel Messi World Cup Jerseys worn during the 2022 FIFA World Cup have fetched a remarkable €7 million at a recent Sotheby’s auction in New York. The Argentine maestro celebrated as a national hero, led his team to a historic World Cup victory just a year ago, triumphing over France in a final widely acclaimed as one of the greatest in the tournament’s history.
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These sought-after jerseys hold significant value, having been worn by Messi in pivotal moments of the World Cup journey, including the final, semi-final, quarter-final, last-16 tie, and two gripping group stage encounters. The auction marks a testament to the enduring legacy of Messi, who not only captained Argentina to victory but also etched his name in World Cup history by becoming the first player to score in the group stage, last 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final of a single tournament.
Lionel Messi World Cup Jerseys
Notably, the €7 million sale falls just short of the record for the most expensive football jersey, which still belongs to Diego Maradona’s legendary jersey from the infamous ‘Hand of God’ match at the 1986 World Cup, sold for a staggering €8.2 million last year. Messi’s achievement on the field and the subsequent demand for his memorabilia reflect the enduring fascination with football’s iconic moments.
While the auction showcased six out of seven jerseys worn by Messi in the tournament, one notable omission was a shirt that had been exchanged with Heart of Midlothian’s Australian international, Cammy Devlin. This unique exchange adds an intriguing element to the collection’s narrative, highlighting the personal connections and exchanges that occur within the football community.
The winning bid for Lionel Messi's six game-worn 2022 World Cup jerseys is $7.8 MILLION 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/FADmAYIaMB
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) December 14, 2023
A spokesperson for Sotheby’s shared that a commendable portion of the proceeds from the auction would be directed towards the Unicas Project. This initiative, spearheaded by Sant Joan de Deu Barcelona Children’s Hospital with the support of the Leo Messi Foundation, is dedicated to addressing the needs of children afflicted by rare diseases. The charitable aspect adds a philanthropic dimension to the auction, reflecting Messi’s commitment to making a positive impact beyond the football field.
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In conclusion, the sale of Lionel Messi World Cup Jerseys stands as a testament to the enduring allure of football memorabilia and the indelible mark left by legendary players on the sport’s history. The convergence of athletic prowess, historic moments, and charitable endeavors encapsulates the multifaceted impact of football beyond the pitch.