The Golden Ball Stolen from Maradona

Until 1994, this prestigious award was reserved exclusively for European players. Nevertheless, the Argentine talent received the wonderful Golden Ball for the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, a tangible sign of his dominance and unmatched skill.

Furthermore, in 1995, he was awarded the prestigious Golden Ball for his career, in recognition of his indelible impact on world football.

After decades of mystery, Maradona's Golden Ball, which had been stolen during a robbery at the Banco di Napoli in 1989, has finally been returned to its rightful owner. Thanks to the combined efforts of the police, art authorities and a Camorra feud, the precious trophy was recovered from a secret hiding place and will be returned to the family of the legendary Argentine footballer. The return of the Golden Ball represents not only a victory for justice, but also a significant moment for football and for all admirers of the "Pibe de Oro" (Golden Boy). The trophy will now be displayed in a safe, publicly accessible location, so that everyone can admire and share in the greatness and indelible memory of one of the greatest players of all time.

The discovery of the golden ball took place several years ago, when a keen collector of auction items, of French-Algerian origin, came across the precious object. It was 28 January 2016 when Abdelhamid B., while examining a vast assortment of sporting trophies, spotted a crate containing more than 150 unique pieces. Among them, he immediately noticed a golden boot and a Golden Ball, which he initially thought had belonged to Johan Cruyff.

After seven years of meticulous investigation, with the help of 3D forensic analysis, the authenticity and provenance of the golden ball stolen from Maradona has been confirmed: it does indeed belong to the legendary Maradona, awarded to him in 1986.

After years of silence and discretion, the moment has finally come to put the trophy up for auction. Its incredible historical and symbolic value makes this sale a true event in the world of sports collecting. The auction price is expected to reach astronomical figures, certainly in the millions of euros. This is not just an object of great monetary value, but also an icon of football and a symbol of Maradona's extraordinary career.

The Argentine champion's family, however, has expressed its opposition to this sale. For them, this golden ball represents an unbreakable bond with Maradona's memory and legacy. They have stated that they will do everything possible to block the auction and keep the trophy in their custody.

Despite the emotional impact and the controversy surrounding the upcoming auction, many are eager for the opportunity to own a unique piece of football history. The sale of the golden ball is drawing the attention of collectors, sports enthusiasts and investors from all over the world. The day of the auction, when the fate of this precious trophy will be decided, is awaited with great anticipation.

The auction of the prestigious Golden Ball that belonged to Maradona is scheduled for 6 June, and its value is estimated to be extraordinary, ranging between 12 and 15 million euros. However, the legendary footballer's family does not accept this decision. Maradona's children, Diego Jr., Dalma and Giannina, argue that the trophy rightfully belongs to them as legitimate heirs: "Our father wanted that ball with all his heart, and if it has been found, it's wonderful that it is now in our hands," Diego Jr. told Corriere del Mezzogiorno, announcing that the family is ready to fight for possession of the trophy: "Our lawyers are ready to act, we will await the results of our research and, if necessary, we will take steps to block the auction."