The football used by Diego Maradona to score his renowned “Hand of God” goal during the 1986 FIFA World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and England is expected to command a price of around US$10 million at an auction scheduled for August in the United States. The item will be offered by Heritage Auctions, a Texas-based firm, with bidding opening at US$2.5 million.

Maradona’s controversial goal occurred at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where he punched the ball past England goalkeeper Peter Shilton, propelling Argentina to a 2-1 victory. The Argentine star famously described the goal as scored “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.” Argentina went on to win the tournament, adding to the moment’s historical significance.

Dan Imler, vice president of sports at Heritage Auctions, called the ball “easily the most historic ball in the realm of soccer,” noting its use in both the “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” — a spectacular solo effort by Maradona in the same match where he dribbled past multiple English defenders before scoring.

The ball’s estimated price surpasses the record previously set by the match-worn jersey Maradona wore during the game, which sold for US$9.3 million. Maradona passed away in November 2020, but his legacy continues to capture global attention.

The auction comes ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina and England once again faced each other in the semi-finals. Argentina won that encounter but ultimately lost in the final. The historical rivalry between the two nations extends beyond football, with ongoing political tensions over the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands.