Lionel Messi, the Argentine football maestro, has once again solidified his status as a global sporting icon with the sale of six of his match-worn jerseys from the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The jerseys, which Messi donned during Argentina's triumphant campaign in Qatar, were auctioned by Sotheby's for a staggering $7.8 million (£6.2 million), marking the highest sale for sports memorabilia this year.
This historic sale, however, fell short of surpassing the auction record set by Michael Jordan's 1998 NBA Finals jersey, which fetched $10.1 million (£8.3 million) at Sotheby's New York last year. Messi's jerseys, worn in the first half of Argentina's World Cup matches, played a crucial role in the team's success, particularly in the dramatic final against France, which culminated in a penalty shootout victory at the Lusail Stadium in Doha.
Brahm Wachter, Sotheby's Head of Modern Collectibles, commented on the significance of the sale, stating, "These historic shirts are not only a tangible reminder of one of the most important moments in the history of sports, but are principally connected to the pinnacle moment in the career of the most decorated football player in history." The jerseys symbolize Messi's crowning achievement in an illustrious career, both at the club and international level.
The identity of the winning bidder remains undisclosed, maintaining the intrigue surrounding this high-profile auction. The sale, conducted online over two weeks, also featured an exhibition of the jerseys at Sotheby's New York headquarters, providing a unique opportunity for football enthusiasts and collectors to witness these iconic pieces of sporting history up close.
In a move blending philanthropy with sports, part of the proceeds from the auction will support the UNICAS Project, an initiative aiding children with rare diseases, based in Barcelona. The project is a collaborative effort between the Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona Children's Hospital and the Leo Messi Foundation, underscoring Messi's commitment to giving back to the community.
Messi's influence extends beyond the auction house. After a legendary 17-season stint with FC Barcelona, where he claimed numerous individual and team accolades, including a record eight Ballon d'Or titles, Messi's recent move to Inter Miami in the MLS has continued to generate excitement and surge in ticket sales.
The auction of Messi's World Cup jerseys is not just a testament to his unparalleled achievements on the football pitch but also reflects his enduring legacy as one of the greatest sports personalities of our time. Whether these prized jerseys will be showcased publicly or kept privately remains to be seen, but their significance in the annals of sports history is undeniable.
