The ‘Hand of God’ shirt worn by Diego Maradona is expected to fetch more than $5 million at auction

Diego Maradona’s shirt from the 1986 World Cup quarterfinal against England, in which he scored the ‘Hand of God’ and the ‘Goal of the Century,’ is expected to sell for more than £4 million ($5.25 million).

Former England footballer Steve Hodge had the iconic blue jersey when he exchanged shirts with Maradona following Argentina’s 2-0 victory.
Hodge mistakenly flicked the ball into the air, allowing Maradona to score the legendary “Hand of God” goal.

“The Hand of God is certainly a singular moment not only in the history of sports but in the history of the twentieth century,” said Brahm Wachter, the auction house’s Head of Streetwear and Modern Collectables.
“The event, which occurred just after the Falklands conflict, reverberated far beyond football, inspiring books, films, and documentaries. Maradona is now regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, and this game is a significant part of his legacy.

” Of course, not only was ‘The Hand of God’ goal scored in this game, but also, the ‘Goal of the Century’ which is widely considered to be one of the greatest individual goals of all time,” Wachter added.

With a current record of $5.64 million, Maradona’s shirt is likely to challenge Babe Ruth’s Yankee road jersey as the most expensive match-worn jersey sold at auction.
The shirt was originally on exhibition at the National Football Museum in Manchester, England, and is now available for purchase.
“I’ve had this garment for over 35 years, ever since Diego and I swapped jerseys in the tunnel after the legendary battle,” Hodge remarked. “Playing against one of the best and most magnificent football players of all time was an amazing honour.”

“The Hand of God shirt has significant cultural significance for the football world, the people of Argentina, and the people of England, and I’m confident that the new owner will be extremely proud to own the world’s most iconic football shirt.”
From April 20 to May 4, the shirt will be available for purchase online and will be on display at Sotheby’s in London for the length of the auction.