Maradona’s Successors Fail in Legal Fight to Prevent Sale of World Cup Golden Ball Trophy

A French court has ruled that the auction of a trophy awarded to the late Diego Maradona after the 1986 World Cup can proceed as planned, despite opposition from his heirs. The Golden Ball trophy, which Maradona received for being the best player of the tournament, is set to be auctioned next Thursday in Paris by the Aguttes auction house.

Maradona’s heirs had attempted to stop the auction by starting an urgent judicial procedure, claiming that the trophy was stolen and that the current owner had no right to sell it. However, the court ruled against them, stating that the current owner, identified as Mr. Benchaieb, should be considered as acting in good faith.

The trophy had been missing for decades after it disappeared in uncertain circumstances, only resurfacing recently. Some rumors suggest it was lost during a poker game, sold to pay off debts, or stolen from a bank in Naples where Maradona had stored it.

French judicial officials have opened an investigation into the resale of allegedly stolen goods, but the court ruling is not expected to affect the probe. Aguttes expects the trophy to fetch millions at auction due to its uniqueness, and bidders will be required to make a deposit of 150,000 euros ($161,000) to participate.

Maradona, who captained Argentina to victory in the 1986 World Cup final, scored the infamous “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” in a quarterfinal match against England. The auction of his Golden Ball trophy has sparked controversy and legal battles, adding another chapter to the legendary player’s legacy.