A replica World Cup trophy used by Argentina's players including Messi during on-pitch celebrations following their heroic win is up for sale. (Richmond Auctions via SWNS)
A replica World Cup trophy used by Argentina's players including Messi during on-pitch celebrations following their heroic win is up for sale alongside a 2022 Panini Instant Lionel Messi #118 FIFA World Cup Qatar trading card. (Richmond Auctions via SWNS)
The trophy and card with Leo Messi holding it after winning the 2022 World Cup. (Richmond Auctions via SWNS)
By Talker
By Charlie Fenton
A replica World Cup trophy used by Lionel Messi in an Instagram post which became the most-liked photo in the world is for sale.
Argentina lifted the real solid gold trophy after squeezing past France on penalties during their historic campaign at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
But during post-match celebrations the trophy was given back to organizers FIFA for safekeeping, and a replica made its way onto the pitch.
And for 45 minutes it was passed among the players, including Player of the Tournament Lionel Messi, according to auctioneers Richmond Auctions.
A replica World Cup trophy used by Argentina's players including Messi during on-pitch celebrations following their heroic win is up for sale. (Richmond Auctions via SWNS)
It was also captured in a picture posted on Instagram by Messi, which later became the social media site’s most-liked photo with 74 million, the auctioneers say.
Afterward, it was signed by players including the Argentine talisman.
And later was held in an exhibition at an Argentine museum which is supported by notarial documentation, photographs and video, media coverage and exhibition records.
Now nearly four years on it is heading to the auction block giving soccer fans the opportunity to own a piece of one of the sport’s most celebrated moments.
A 2022 Panini Instant Lionel Messi No. 118 FIFA World Cup Qatar trading card, graded PSA 10 gem mint, featuring Messi holding the replica will also be on sale alongside the trophy.
A replica World Cup trophy used by Argentina's players including Messi during on-pitch celebrations following their heroic win is up for sale alongside a 2022 Panini Instant Lionel Messi #118 FIFA World Cup Qatar trading card. (Richmond Auctions via SWNS)
By Talker
They will be the centerpiece of Richmond Auctions’ Premier Sports Card & TCG Auction in South Carolina.
Experts haven’t given an estimate, saying they will let the “market determine its value.”
Jordan Richmond, co-founder of Richmond Auctions, said: “What drew us to this piece is the same point that draws us to exceptional collectibles across every category: rarity, provenance and a story that can’t be recreated.”
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