Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ Football Expected to Fetch $10 Million at Auction

The football used by Diego Maradona to score the infamous “Hand of God” goal against England in the 1986 FIFA World Cup is set to go under the hammer in the United States this month, with an estimated price tag of around $10 million.

Auction house officials say the historic ball could attract a bid in the eight‑figure range, opening bidding at $2.5 million. The sale will run from August 21 to August 23.

Maradona’s first goal in that quarter‑final remains one of the most talked‑about moments in World Cup history. Replays showed the Argentine striker using his hand to direct the ball past England goalkeeper Peter Shilton before it crossed the line. The referee missed the infringement, allowing the goal to stand.

After the match, Maradona quipped that the goal was scored “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.” Argentina went on to win the match 2‑1 and later lifted the trophy in Mexico.

The upcoming auction follows another record‑breaking sale of Maradona memorabilia. The jersey he wore in the same Argentina‑England clash currently holds the title of the most expensive football shirt ever sold, fetching $9.3 million.

Widely regarded as one of football’s greatest legends, Maradona passed away in November 2020 at age 60. His exploits with Argentina and Napoli, combined with his controversial moments, continue to drive strong demand for his memorabilia among collectors.

The Argentina‑England rivalry remains fierce, both on the pitch and off it. The two sides met again in this year’s World Cup semi‑final, with Argentina prevailing before falling in the final. Beyond sport, the nations are still locked in a long‑standing political dispute over the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), a conflict that adds extra weight to their 1986 encounter, which took place just four years after the Falklands War.

Today, the “Hand of God” ball is recognised as one of football’s most iconic artefacts. Its forthcoming auction is expected to draw interest from collectors and fans worldwide.