Six iconic jerseys worn by Lionel Messi set for auction

Sotheby's revealed a significant auction set for December: six iconic jerseys worn by Lionel Messi during Argentina's triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign. The esteemed auction house estimates their value at a staggering $10 million (£8m).

These jerseys hold immense significance as Messi sported them during pivotal moments in the tournament. He graced the field in these jerseys during the initial halves of crucial group-stage clashes against Saudi Arabia and Mexico. Moreover, they witnessed action in subsequent matches versus Australia, the Netherlands, and Croatia, culminating in the grand finale against France.

Argentina's historic victory in Qatar last year marked a crowning achievement for Messi, who had previously encountered disappointment in four World Cup attempts.

If the auction surpasses the $10 million valuation, it could set a groundbreaking record as the most valuable assortment of sports memorabilia ever sold, as stated by Sotheby's. Notably, the highest-priced individual jersey previously auctioned belonged to basketball icon Michael Jordan, worn during his illustrious NBA finals with the Chicago Bulls in 1998. That jersey fetched an astounding $10.1 million (£8.1m) last year.

A growing trend in auction houses focusing on sports memorabilia has emerged in recent years, recognizing its burgeoning market. The jerseys, curated for auction, are being presented by US tech startup AC Momento, specializing in aiding athletes with their memorabilia collections.

A commendable gesture accompanies this auction, as a portion of the proceeds will contribute to the UNICAS Project. This initiative collaborates with a children's hospital in Barcelona, aiding youngsters battling rare diseases.

Prior to the auction, these prized jerseys will be available for public viewing, open for all to admire from November 30 to December 14th.