Here is the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-16 23:12:00.
The iconic jersey worn by Pelé during Brazil’s 5-2 victory over Sweden in the 1958 FIFA World Cup final has fetched a staggering $4.88 million at a Sotheby’s auction held on Thursday. This marks the highest price ever paid for a Pelé collectible, far exceeding the previously established record of $1.33 million for a 1958 Alifabologet Pelé rookie card sold privately in 2022.
The jersey, which Pelé donned at just 17 years old, solidifies his status as the youngest player to appear and score in a World Cup final, as he netted goals in the 55th and 90th minutes. Following the historic match, the jersey was gifted to teammate Dida, who later donated it to the Museu dos Esportes in Rio de Janeiro. The shirt was last auctioned in 2004 at Christie’s, where it sold for a mere $105,600. This latest sale includes concrete photo-matching documentation from SIA Photo Match to ensure its authenticity.
A Historic Symbol
“This shirt not only serves as a lasting reminder of one of football’s pivotal moments, but it also represents the moment that propelled Pelé into the realm of global sports icons,” remarked Brendan Hawkes, Sotheby’s head of sports strategy and development.
With the World Cup final approaching this weekend, Hawkes noted the heightened interest in the jersey worn by Pelé as he scored his two goals over six decades ago. This garment holds the title of the second most expensive soccer jersey ever sold, falling just short of Diego Maradona’s $9.28 million “Hand of God” jersey from the 1986 World Cup.
Comparative Values
Maradona’s shirt from his famous quarterfinal win against England is the highest-priced soccer collectible and ranks as the third most expensive sports jersey overall, only behind Babe Ruth’s “called shot” jersey ($24 million) and Michael Jordan’s “Last Dance” jersey ($10.1 million).
In addition to Pelé’s historic jersey, Sotheby’s auction also featured Maradona’s 1986 World Cup captain’s armband, photo-matched to the “Hand of God” and the “Goal of the Century,” which sold for $512,000.
FAQs
What is the significance of Pelé’s 1958 jersey?
It symbolizes one of the most important moments in football history, marking Pelé’s rise as a global sports icon.
How much did Maradona’s items sell for at the auction?
Maradona’s 1986 captain’s armband sold for $512,000, showcasing its historical value.
Quick Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-16 23:12:00
Read more on the FIFA World Cup 2026 right here as the tournament continues.
Tags: #Pelés #World #Cup #final #jersey #sells #4.9M #auction
Tags: #Pelés #World #Cup #final #jersey #sells #4.9M #auction
