Maradona's 'Hand of God' ball sells for £2.5m
The football with which Diego Maradona scored his famous 'hand of God' goal in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final victory over England is sold at auction.
The sale of the 'Hand of God' ball for £2.5m marks a significant moment for football history and memorabilia collectors. This iconic match, played on June 22, 1986, between Argentina and England, is one of the most infamous in World Cup history. Maradona's use of his hand to score, followed by a stunning individual effort for the second goal, sealed a 2-1 victory for Argentina and ultimately led to England's elimination from the tournament.
The 'Hand of God' incident has become synonymous with Maradona's career and a defining moment in football lore. The sale of the ball at auction not only highlights the enduring fascination with this event but also underscores the commercial value of sports memorabilia. For collectors and institutions, owning a piece of such significant history can be a prized possession, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in the sport.
As the sports world continues to evolve, with increasing emphasis on digital experiences and memorabilia, this sale serves as a reminder of the lasting appeal of physical artifacts tied to historic events. Looking ahead, collectors and enthusiasts will likely be watching for other iconic items from Maradona's career or significant moments in football history to come up for auction, potentially sparking new bidding wars and setting fresh benchmarks for the value of sports memorabilia.
Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.