Maradona's 1986 World Cup match ball heads to auction

Heritage Auctions announced the sale of the Adidas Azteca ball used in the 1986 World Cup quarter‑final where Argentina defeated England 2‑1. The match is remembered for Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century”. The ball, originally handed to Tunisian referee Ali Bin Naser, sold for $3.6 million in 2022 and now re‑enters the market with a $2.5 million opening bid. Auction specialist Mike Provenzale told Reuters the item is “the most important football memorabilia that exists” and noted that its final price could rival the $9.2 million paid for Maradona’s shirt from the same game.

Provenzale added that interest in football collectibles has surged, especially for modern trading cards of stars such as Messi and Ronaldo. Major tournaments like the World Cup act as catalysts, driving rapid price increases for related memorabilia.