The World Cup replica trophy held by Lionel Messi after Argentina's historic win over France at the 2022 tournament in Qatar sold for a staggering price. (Richmond Auctions via SWNS)
By Charlie Fenton
A replica World Cup trophy used by Lionel Messi in an Instagram post that became the most-liked photo in the world has sold for a whopping £390,000 ($525,000).
Argentina lifted the real solid gold trophy after squeezing past France on penalties during its 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.
(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 on the winning team.
Later was held in an exhibition at an Argentine museum which is supported by notarial documentation, photographs and video, media coverage and exhibition records.
Accompanying the trophy are duly translated and legalized notarial instruments, together with photographs and videos documenting its authenticity and traceability.
A 2022 Panini Instant Lionel Messi No. 118 FIFA World Cup Qatar trading card, graded PSA 10 gem mint, featuring Messi holding the replica was also sold alongside the trophy.
(Richmond Auctions via SWNS)
Together, they sold for a huge £390,166 ($525,000) after a bidding war on Nov. 7.
They were the centerpiece of Richmond Auctions’ Premier Sports Card & TCG Auction in South Carolina.
Prior to its sale, experts did not give an estimated price, saying they wanted to let the “market determine its value.”
At the time, 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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