Maradona 1986 World Cup Hand of God ball sells for £2.5m at auction

The football that Diego Maradona used to score the infamous “hand of God” goal during the 1986 World Cup quarter‑final against England is slated for auction. The ball, which also witnessed Maradona’s “Goal of the Century” in the same match, has been authenticated by FIFA and will be offered by a leading auction house later this month, with estimates placing its value in the six‑figure range.

The sale follows a series of high‑profile football memorabilia auctions that have drawn interest from collectors worldwide, reflecting the enduring historical significance of the 1986 tournament. Organizers expect strong bidding activity, citing the ball’s unique provenance and its status as a symbol of one of the sport’s most debated moments. The auction will provide an opportunity for a private collector to acquire a piece of World Cup history.