The soccer ball that Diego Maradona used to score his infamous 'Hand of God' goal during Argentina's win over England in the 1986 World Cup is expected to sell for $10 million at a US auction this month. This historic ball, which Maradona also used to score the 'Goal of the Century' in the same match, will be auctioned by Heritage Auctions from August 21 to 23, starting with an opening bid of $2.5 million.
A Historic Piece of Soccer Legacy
The quarter-final match at the Estadio Azteca saw Maradona punch the ball past the England goalkeeper, leading Argentina to a 2-1 victory. Following the game, Maradona famously said his goal was scored 'a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.' Argentina went on to win the World Cup that year.
Iconic Goals and Auctions
Heritage Auctions' vice president of sports, Dan Imler, described the ball as 'easily the most historic ball in the realm of soccer.' The ball is not only significant for the 'Hand of God' goal but also for the 'Goal of the Century,' where Maradona dribbled past several English defenders before scoring. 'Both of the goals scored are just so iconic, so memorable,' Imler said.
Record-Breaking Jerseys
The jersey Maradona wore during the Argentina-England clash holds the record for the most expensive soccer shirt, priced at $9.3 million. This auction comes as tensions between Argentina and England flare up again, most recently in the 2026 World Cup semi-final, where Argentina prevailed.
Political Tensions and Historical Significance
The rivalry between Argentina and England extends beyond the soccer field to a long-standing sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands. The auction of this historic soccer ball adds another layer to the enduring legacy of Maradona's career and the intense rivalry between the two nations.
