Lionel Messi’s jerseys, worn during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, are set to make headlines at Sotheby’s auction, potentially commanding a staggering price in the tens of millions. These iconic jerseys, witnessed by fans worldwide as Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory, include those worn in the Final, Semi-final, Quarter-final, Round of 16, and two Group Stage matches. The auction will take place from November 30 to December 14.
With Messi’s global stature and the historical significance of these jerseys, Sotheby’s expects the collection to attract bids over $10 million. This auction follows the trend of record-breaking sales for sports memorabilia, such as Michael Jordan’s NBA Finals jersey and Diego Maradona’s infamous ‘Hand of God’ shirt, solidifying Messi’s set as a highly sought-after item in the sports memorabilia market.
AC Momento, a tech company specializing in sports memorabilia, is orchestrating the sale in partnership with renowned athletes. AC Momento’s CEO, John Brennan, a seasoned collector himself, emphasizes that this auction is a landmark event, granting fans the unique opportunity to own a tangible piece of Messi’s monumental achievements.
In addition to the excitement around the auction, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the UNICAS Project, supported by the SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital and the Leo Messi Foundation. The project aims to provide aid to children suffering from rare diseases, adding a philanthropic aspect to the sale.
As potential bidders gear up for this historic auction, the jerseys will be showcased at Sotheby’s New York offices. This will allow ardent admirers of Messi and avid collectors to view and appreciate the garments that Messi wore during what was undoubtedly a pinnacle event in his storied career.
The anticipation surrounding this auction is not without reason. Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, led Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in 2022, cementing his place in football history. The jerseys available for bidding hold immense sentimental value, each representing a crucial moment in Argentina’s journey to glory.
From the Final, where Messi showcased his exceptional skills and led his team to victory, to the heart-stopping Semi-final and Quarter-final matches, these jerseys carry the weight of the nation’s hopes and dreams. The Round of 16 and Group Stage jerseys also hold significance, symbolizing the team’s perseverance and determination throughout the tournament.
For avid collectors and dedicated fans, owning one of Messi’s game-worn World Cup jerseys is a dream come true. These jerseys not only capture the spirit and energy of a historic football tournament but also embody the tenacity and brilliance of one of the sport’s greatest players.
As the auction dates approach, collectors and enthusiasts alike eagerly await the opportunity to own a piece of football history. Messi’s jerseys, with their remarkable significance and rarity, are expected to find their way into private collections or museums that honor the legacy of this extraordinary athlete.
In conclusion, the upcoming auction of Lionel Messi’s game-worn World Cup jerseys is poised to make waves in the sports memorabilia market. With an anticipated price tag in the tens of millions, these jerseys represent not only the historical achievements of a football icon but also serve as a tangible connection between Messi and his devoted fans. The proceeds from this milestone event will also make a difference in the lives of children battling rare diseases, adding an extra layer of significance to the sale.
