The shirt worn by Sir Bobby Charlton during England’s 1966 World Cup semi-final against Portugal has fetched an impressive £59,040 GBP. The late football legend’s signed shirt, a pivotal piece of football memorabilia, witnessed a fierce bidding battle at Hansons Auctioneers’ saleroom in Derbyshire, England. The historic garment, worn on July 26, 1966, at London’s Empire Stadium, Wembley, during England’s 2-1 victory over Portugal, sold to a private international online bidder, including buyer’s premium, in the firm’s November 14 Sporting Auction.
This auction comes on the heels of Sir Bobby Charlton’s recent passing at the age of 86, with the football star being laid to rest in Manchester. The sale, scheduled a year prior to his passing, took an unexpected turn as news of his loss emerged, adding sentimental significance to the auction.
Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, expressed his sentiments, saying, “We’re pleased to have been able to find this important shirt a new home. We hope it enhances memories of the tremendous role he played in the 1966 World Cup as the nation celebrates his life.”
According to the auction house, the shirt was originally donated by Sir Bobby to a charity auction after the 1966 World Cup. Having been bought by a football pools winner in the early 1990s, the shirt was personally dedicated and autographed by Sir Bobby, confirming its role in the historic match against Portugal. David Wilson-Turner, Head of Sports Memorabilia at Hansons, emphasized the significance of the shirt, stating, “This shirt deserved to excel. It was worn by one of the greatest England players of all time and marks a magical moment in sporting history.”