A collection of Lionel Messi’s jerseys worn during the 2022 FIFA World Cup is set to make headlines at Sotheby’s auction house, with experts predicting that they could fetch a price in the tens of millions. These jerseys witnessed the football legend lead Argentina to World Cup glory, including matches from the Final, Semi-final, Quarter-final, Round of 16, and two Group Stage matches, and are scheduled to be auctioned off from November 30 to December 14.
Sotheby’s, known for its prestigious auctions, is anticipating that this collection will attract bids exceeding $10 million, a testament to Messi’s global stature and the historical significance of these items. This auction follows the recent 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. Messi’s set of jerseys is poised to join the ranks of these legendary items.
AC Momento, a tech company specializing in sports memorabilia, is orchestrating the sale in partnership with Messi. The company works with renowned athletes to curate and auction their game-worn items. John Brennan, CEO of AC Momento and a veteran collector himself, expressed his excitement for this auction, emphasizing that it represents a landmark event that allows fans to own a tangible piece of Messi’s monumental achievements.
Adding to the significance of the auction, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the UNICAS Project, which operates under the auspices of the SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital and is supported by the Leo Messi Foundation. The project aims to provide support and assistance to children with rare diseases, making this auction not just about owning a piece of sporting history but also contributing to a noble cause.
Before the auction begins, the jerseys will be showcased at Sotheby’s offices in New York, allowing fans and admirers to get an up-close look at the garments that Messi wore during the pinnacle event of his illustrious career. This opportunity to view these iconic jerseys in person adds another layer of excitement to an already highly anticipated auction.
With the auction fast approaching, collectors, enthusiasts, and fans worldwide are eagerly preparing to submit their bids for these historic items. As the football world holds its breath, one thing is clear: Messi’s World Cup jerseys are expected to shatter records and solidify their place among the most coveted sports memorabilia in history.