Diego Maradona’s iconic Golden Ball trophy, awarded for his outstanding performance in the 1986 World Cup, has resurfaced after being “stolen” and will soon be auctioned off in France on 6 June.
The Aguttes auction house revealed the exciting news on Tuesday, expressing anticipation for the sale of the historic item, expecting it to fetch “millions.”
Maradona, a football legend who passed away in 2020, clinched the prestigious Golden Ball after guiding Argentina to victory in the 1986 World Cup held in Mexico.
Francois Thierry, a sports expert from the Aguttes auction house, shed light on the intriguing backstory, stating, “There are a lot of stories and legends, like it was stolen by the mafia to make gold.” Thierry emphasized the thorough verification process undertaken, including police involvement, to ensure the trophy’s authenticity.
The journey of the Golden Ball took an unexpected turn when an anonymous seller acquired it in 2016, unaware of its significance. Thierry elaborated, “He bought it with many other things, at the beginning he did not know it was something important,” highlighting the seller’s discovery through online research.
The 1986 World Cup remains etched in football history, notably for Maradona’s remarkable performance against England in the quarter-finals. His infamous “Hand of God” goal, followed by the mesmerizing “Goal of the Century,” captivated fans worldwide and solidified his status as a football icon.
Previously, Maradona’s jersey and the match ball from the historic encounter were auctioned for staggering amounts, reflecting the immense value attached to his legacy.
Thierry emphasized the significance of the Golden Ball, stating, “The trophy symbolizes the pinnacle of his career and he is the player of the century.” Anticipating a lucrative sale, Thierry referred to past auctions where Maradona memorabilia fetched millions, underscoring the enduring admiration for the football maestro.