Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ World Cup Ball Expected to Fetch $10 Million at US Auction

The football used by Argentine legend Diego Maradona to score his infamous “Hand of God” goal at the 1986 FIFA World Cup is expected to sell for as much as $10 million when it goes up for auction in the United States later this month.

Texas-based Heritage Auctions announced that the historic match ball will be offered for sale between August 21 and 23, with bidding set to begin at $2.5 million.

The ball was used during Argentina’s memorable quarter-final victory over England at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, a match that remains one of the most talked-about encounters in football history.

Maradona’s controversial opening goal came when he punched the ball into the net with his left hand, an infringement that escaped the attention of the referee and assistant officials. The goal stood, despite protests from England players.

After the match, Maradona famously described the goal as having been scored “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God,” a phrase that has since become one of football’s most enduring expressions.

The Argentine icon later scored a second goal in the same match, dribbling past several England players before finding the net in what is widely regarded as one of the greatest goals ever scored in World Cup history.

Argentina eventually defeated England 2–1 before going on to lift the World Cup trophy.

Auction organisers believe the extraordinary historical significance of the ball, combined with Maradona’s enduring legacy, could push the final sale price into eight figures.

The sale also comes as interest in football memorabilia continues to grow worldwide. Maradona’s jersey from the same Argentina–England match currently holds the record as the most expensive football shirt ever sold after it fetched $9.3 million at auction.

Maradona, who died in November 2020 at the age of 60, remains one of the sport’s greatest icons, with his achievements continuing to captivate football fans decades after his playing career.

The rivalry between Argentina and England has extended beyond football, shaped by political tensions surrounding the sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands.

The nations renewed their sporting rivalry at this year’s World Cup, where Argentina defeated England in the semi-finals before finishing as runners-up in the final.

Collectors and football enthusiasts are expected to closely watch the upcoming auction, which could establish another record for sports memorabilia linked to the late Argentine legend.