Lionel Messi: Match Worn World Cup Jerseys Sold for Millions at Auction After World Cup Success

• Lionel Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar
• Consequently, he won his record-extending eighth Ballon d'Or award in October
• Six of his match-worn jerseys in Qatar have been sold for $7.8mil at an auction

The story of Lionel Messi’s triumphant 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign will be around long after his match-worn jerseys were sold at an auction.

He captained Argentina to global triumph in Qatar, beating defending champions, France 4-3 on penalties in the final after a 3-3 draw over 120 minutes.

The Copa America champions overcame an initial setback of losing the opening game to minions Saudi Arabia, to claim the only trophy missing in their captain’s illustrious career.

Messi's career has taken a different turn since the end of the tournament. He left European football and now plays in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami.

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Messi’s World Cup shirts sold at auction

According to Forbes, six of the jerseys worn by the former Barcelona star in Qatar have been sold off at an auction for a whopping $7.803 million by New York-based auction house, Sotheby’s.

The only one missing was his match jersey from the 2-0 win over Poland in the group stage, which confirmed their progress to the knockout stage - as it was likely swapped with an opponent.

The memorabilia became the most expensive Messi item ever sold and the third most valuable sports jersey behind Michael Jordan’s 1998 NBA Finals jersey, which sold for $10.1mil.

The second on that list is Diego Maradona’s 'Hand of God' goal jersey worn during the 1986 FIFA World Cup, which sold for $9.28mil in May 2022.

Per Marca, the auction proceeds will be donated to the UNICAS Project, led by Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona Children's Hospital with the support of the Leo Messi Foundation, to help children suffering from rare diseases.

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Messi’s top six moments in Qatar

Sports Brief previously reported on Messi’s six unforgettable World Cup moments as revealed by the ex-Barcelona player in celebration of the six-month anniversary of the triumph.

The 36-year-old recapped some of the best moments in Qatar, which include his incredible assist for Nahuel Molina against the Netherlands and his opening strike against Mexico.