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Football jerseys have come a long way from just being fanwear, they're now prized collectibles, especially if worn during legendary matches.
According to a report by Vanguard Newspaper, From unforgettable goals to historic World Cup wins, these jerseys capture football’s most iconic moments, and collectors are spending millions to own a piece of history.
Just recently, six shirts worn by Lionel Messi during Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory were sold at Sotheby’s for a staggering £6.1 million ($7.8 million).
“These historic shirts are tied to the peak moment in the career of football’s most decorated player,” said Brahm Wachter of Sotheby’s.
But Messi’s shirts aren’t the most expensive ever sold. That honor goes to another Argentine legend:
1. Diego Maradona – Argentina (1986 World Cup)
Sold for: £7 million
Maradona wore this shirt during the unforgettable quarter-final against England, where he scored both the controversial “Hand of God” goal and the brilliant “Goal of the Century.” England’s Steve Hodge, who swapped shirts with Maradona, auctioned it in 2022. It’s the highest price ever paid for a football shirt.
2. Lionel Messi – Argentina (2022 World Cup)
Sold for: £6.1 million
This collection of six shirts includes ones Messi wore throughout the tournament in Qatar. The sale also supported the UNICAS Project, helping children with rare diseases.
3. Pelé – Brazil (1970 World Cup Final)
Sold for: £157,000. Pelé wore this in the final where Brazil defeated Italy 4-1. He scored the opener and became the only player to win three World Cups. It was sold by Christie’s in 2002.
4. Sir Geoff Hurst – England (1966 World Cup Final)
Sold for £91,750. The only man to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final. His shirt from England’s win over West Germany was sold in 2000.
5. Cristiano Ronaldo — Manchester United (2008 Champions League Final)
Sold for £39,000. Worn during United’s penalty shootout win over Chelsea, this shirt was auctioned in 2023 and remains one of Ronaldo’s most valuable match-worn pieces.