Football

Maradona's 'Hand of God' ball sold for over €2.8 million at auction

The iconic football used by Diego Maradona for his controversial 'Hand of God' goal in 1986 has fetched a high price at auction in the United States.

24 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Maradona's 'Hand of God' ball sold for over €2.8 million at auction — Archive photoPhoto: Unknown author Unknown author · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

The football used by Diego Maradona, famously known for the 'Hand of God' goal, was sold at auction for approximately €2.8 million ($3,355,000) on Saturday evening in the United States. This sale marks a significant moment in the intersection of sports memorabilia and historical events.

The ball was recovered by the Tunisian referee Ali Bin Nasser during the quarter-final match of the 1986 FIFA World Cup, where Argentina faced England. Maradona's controversial goal has remained a defining moment in football history.

During the same auction, memorabilia from other sports legends was also sold. Notably, a robe belonging to boxer Muhammad Ali, worn during his victory over Joe Frazier in 1975, was sold for $549,000 (approximately €470,000).

The ball's sale presents an example of how sports artifacts can hold substantial market value, reflecting both their significance in sports history and the continuing intrigue surrounding iconic events and figures.

Reports from various sources confirm the auction price of the ball, with unified recognition of its historical context and the event it represents. The sale has drawn considerable attention from fans of both football and sports memorabilia as a whole.

Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal, scored in 1986, is celebrated yet controversial, contributing notably to discussions about sportsmanship and historical sports moments, further cementing its legacy in football fandom. The auction's outcome highlights the enduring appeal of sports memorabilia.

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