Diego Maradona's Match-Worn "Hand of God" Jersey to Sell at Auction

The jersey worn by Diego Maradona as he scored two of the most iconic and controversial goals of all time is to be auctioned at Sotheby’s.

Playing against England in the 1986 World Cup, Maradona’s first goal was scored with his hand and later became known as the “Hand of God.” His second goal that day is often described as the greatest individual goal ever scored, and has earned the sobriquet the “Goal of the Century.”

After the game, Maradona swapped shirts with England midfielder Steve Hodge, who has owned the jersey ever since. The shirt will soon be sold for the first time over, with bidding opening at Sotheby’s on April 20, while also being on display at Sotheby’s New Bond Street gallery in London.

Announcing the auction, Hodge said:

“I have been the proud owner of this item for over 35 years, since Diego and I swapped shirts in the tunnel after the famed match. It was an absolute privilege to have played against one of the greatest and most magnificent football players of all time. It has also been a pleasure to share it with the public over the last 20 years at the National Football Museum, where it has been on display.

The Hand of God shirt has deep cultural meaning to the football world, the people of Argentina, and the people of England and I’m certain that the new owner will have immense pride in owning the world’s most iconic football shirt.”

A dedicated online auction will run from April 20 to May 4, alongside an exhibition showing the jersey at the Sotheby’s gallery. The shirt is expected to sell for more than £4 million GBP (approximately $5.245 million USD).

For more jerseys, take a look at AC Milan’s special-edition fourth kit designed with NemeN.