A set of Lionel Messi’s jerseys worn during the 2022 FIFA World Cup is set to hit the auction block at Sotheby’s, with bidding expected to reach into the tens of millions. These jerseys, which witnessed the football icon lead 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 is scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 14.
Sotheby’s anticipates that the collection will attract bids over $10 million, a testament to Messi’s global stature and the historical significance of these items. This auction comes on the heels of record-breaking sales for sports memorabilia, such as Michael Jordan’s NBA Finals jersey and Diego Maradona’s infamous ‘Hand of God’ shirt, making Messi’s set a highly coveted item in the world of sports collectibles.
AC Momento, a tech company specializing in sports memorabilia, is orchestrating the sale. The company partners with renowned athletes to curate and auction their game-worn items. AC Momento’s CEO, John Brennan, himself a veteran collector, considers this auction a landmark event that offers fans a tangible piece of Messi’s monumental achievements.
In addition to the allure of owning a piece of sporting history, part of the proceeds from the auction will benefit the UNICAS Project. This project operates under the auspices of the SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital and is supported by the Leo Messi Foundation. The initiative is aimed at providing aid to children with rare diseases, making the auction meaningful beyond the realm of sports memorabilia.
Ahead of the auction, the jerseys will be exhibited at Sotheby’s New York offices, allowing admirers to get a closer look at the garments worn by Messi during what was undoubtedly a pinnacle event in his storied career. This display provides potential bidders and fans with the opportunity to appreciate the significance and beauty of the jerseys firsthand.
Messi’s jerseys from the 2022 World Cup have become iconic symbols of Argentina’s triumph and Messi’s prowess on the field. This collection represents not only a unique piece of football history but also a reflection of Messi’s meteoric rise to become one of the greatest players of all time. Each jersey tells a story of the matches in which it was worn and the emotions experienced by Messi and his teammates as they fought their way to victory.
As fans and collectors eagerly await the auction, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation surrounding the potential sale price for these jerseys. With a track record of extraordinary sales for sports memorabilia, it is likely that Messi’s set will join the ranks of the most expensive and sought-after collectibles in the world.
In conclusion, the upcoming auction of Lionel Messi’s jerseys from the 2022 FIFA World Cup promises to be a historic event. With their immense historical significance, global appeal, and the charitable component added to the mix, these jerseys are poised to fetch a price in the tens of millions. Whether it be a passionate fan or a dedicated collector, owning one of Messi’s World Cup jerseys would be an extraordinary honor and a true testament to the exceptional career of an iconic football legend.