In an announcement on Monday, Sotheby’s, the renowned auction house, revealed that Lionel Messi’s iconic set of six jerseys worn during Argentina’s triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign is anticipated to fetch over $10 million in an upcoming auction scheduled for next month. This collection, which witnessed Messi’s stellar performances on the world stage, is poised to become one of the most valuable sports memorabilia offerings ever presented to the public.
Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, showcased his unparalleled skill and leadership during Argentina’s victorious 2022 World Cup run. Sotheby’s, recognizing the significance of this sporting achievement, described the event as a “monumental occasion in auction history,” offering fans and collectors a unique connection to Messi’s crowning glory.
The jerseys, worn by Messi during pivotal moments of the tournament, including the group-stage clashes against Saudi Arabia and Mexico, as well as the later matches against Australia, the Netherlands, and Croatia, will be at the center of attention during the auction. The final against France, where Argentina clinched the championship, adds an extra layer of historic significance to these jerseys.
Notably, this auction has the potential to break records in the sports memorabilia market. Sotheby’s highlighted that if the jerseys surpass the $10 million mark, it would make this sale the most valuable collection ever auctioned. The current record for the highest-priced individual jersey is held by basketball legend Michael Jordan, whose jersey from the 1998 NBA finals with the Chicago Bulls sold for $10.1 million last year.
The increasing prominence of sports memorabilia in the auction world is evident, with collectors and enthusiasts recognizing the historical and sentimental value of such items. The jerseys, managed by US tech startup AC Momento, will be available for free public viewing from November 30 to December 14, offering fans an opportunity to witness these historic artifacts before they find new homes in private collections.
As Lionel Messi’s illustrious career continues to make waves, the auction of his 2022 World Cup jerseys represents a unique convergence of sports and culture, providing an opportunity for admirers to own a tangible piece of football history.
