Set of Messi’s World Cup Jerseys Could Surpass $10M Record Price. In the realm of soccer greatness, Lionel Messi continues to set unprecedented benchmarks, and his latest feat involves a collection of six jerseys worn during Argentina’s triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign. Sotheby’s, the renowned auction house, is set to unveil this extraordinary offering to the public, anticipating bids that could soar past the $10 million mark, potentially making it one of the most valuable sports memorabilia auctions in history.
The jerseys in question were donned by Messi, the Argentine captain, throughout the entirety of last year’s month-long World Cup, including the riveting final clash against France, which Argentina emerged victorious. Sotheby’s, known for curating exceptional collections, expects this sale to outshine even the historic $10.1 million achieved for Michael Jordan’s jersey from the 1998 NBA Final, marking it as the “most valuable item of sports memorabilia ever sold at auction.”
The current pinnacle for match-worn soccer memorabilia is held by the legendary Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” shirt, auctioned by Sotheby’s for $9.3 million last year. Initially projected to fetch between $5 million and $7 million, Messi’s jerseys could potentially surpass these estimations, marking another milestone in the illustrious career of the soccer icon.
Brahm Wachter, Head of Modern Collectibles for Sotheby’s, expressed the significance of the event, stating, “The sale of these six shirts stands as a monumental occasion in auction history, offering fans and collectors a connection to Messi’s crowning achievement.” The auction promises an invaluable opportunity for enthusiasts to own a piece of history that encapsulates the brilliance of a player who has redefined the boundaries of football excellence.
The auction for Messi’s jerseys is scheduled to run from November 30 to December 14 in an online format. Additionally, these iconic jerseys will be on display at Sotheby’s gallery in New York during the auction period, providing fans with the chance to witness these historic artifacts firsthand.
The surge in interest for sports memorabilia and collectibles is evident, with Sotheby’s noting a vibrant market fuelled by the allure of unique experiences. Younger bidders, particularly those under 40, are actively participating in auctions, drawn in by items such as jerseys from sports legends like Tom Brady and Kobe Bryant.
Lionel Messi, at 36, continues to be a global soccer icon. After a storied career in European football with clubs like Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, he made a landmark move to MLS team Inter Miami earlier this year. The impact of Messi’s arrival was felt instantly, with MLS ticket prices skyrocketing, and fans facing challenges in acquiring replica jerseys in the wake of his much-anticipated transition.
Messi
Messi’s association with the 2022 World Cup holds a special place in history, marking his first FIFA World Cup title and Argentina’s third overall. Adidas reported a rapid sell-out of Messi’s jerseys and Argentina team kits, attesting to the enduring popularity and demand for memorabilia associated with the soccer maestro.
As the world eagerly awaits the outcome of the auction, Lionel Messi’s legacy both on and off the field continues to captivate sports enthusiasts and collectors alike.