Pele's historic jersey is nearing $6 million

The blue jersey worn by Brazilian football legend Pelé in the 1958 World Cup final is poised to become one of the most valuable sports memorabilia in history. It is scheduled to be auctioned in New York City this July, with expectations that it will fetch an exceptional price. The jersey holds immense historical significance, as Pelé wore it at the age of 17 during the final match against Sweden. In that match, he delivered a remarkable performance, scoring two goals and leading Brazil to its first-ever World Cup title. Experts at the auction house confirmed that the jersey remains in pristine condition despite being nearly seven decades old. Its original colors and details are still remarkably clear, further enhancing its historical and monetary value. The jersey bears the iconic number 10, which later became synonymous with Pelé and one of the most recognizable numbers in football. It also serves as an enduring reminder of the tournament that witnessed the rise of a star who would propel Brazil to prominence on the world stage. Historical accounts indicate that Pelé gifted the jersey to his teammate Didi after the match. It later went to a sports museum in Brazil and subsequently appeared in international auctions over the years. The intense interest in the jersey comes amidst the continued growth of the sports memorabilia market, which has seen record-breaking sales in recent years for jerseys and items associated with some of the biggest names in sports, including Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. This jersey is valued at over six million dollars and could become one of the most expensive items in football history, surpassing the record-breaking sale of Maradona's jersey from June 22, 1986, in Mexico City during the legendary quarter-final against England ($9.3 million). Argentina won that match 2-1 thanks to two infamous goals by Maradona, one of which was scored with his hand but allowed by the referee.