A historic jersey worn by Brazilian football legend Pelé during the 1958 FIFA World Cup final has fetched an impressive $4.9 million at a Sotheby’s auction in New York, making it one of the most valuable pieces of football memorabilia ever sold.

The iconic shirt now ranks as the second most expensive football jersey in auction history, trailing only the Argentina shirt worn by Diego Maradona during the 1986 World Cup quarter-final against England.

That famous jersey, associated with the legendary “Hand of God” goal, set the record when it was sold in 2022.

The auction attracted significant interest from collectors worldwide, with multiple bidders competing for the rare piece before the final hammer price was reached.

The sale also marked a remarkable increase in value for the shirt, which was previously auctioned more than two decades ago for just over $100,000.

Pelé wore the jersey during Brazil’s memorable victory over Sweden in the 1958 World Cup final. At just 17 years old, the young forward scored twice as Brazil claimed its first-ever World Cup title.

His outstanding performance announced his arrival on the global stage and remains one of the defining moments in football history.

The Brazilian icon still holds the distinction of being the youngest player ever to score in a FIFA World Cup final, a record that has stood for decades.

Sotheby’s described the sale as a reflection of Pelé’s lasting influence on the sport, noting that the shirt represents far more than a collectible item. It symbolizes the beginning of an extraordinary career that inspired generations of footballers and supporters across the world.

The auction also featured several other historic football items. Among them was Diego Maradona’s captain’s armband from the 1986 World Cup, which attracted a substantial winning bid.

Jerseys worn by Lionel Messi during Barcelona’s famous Champions League comeback against Paris Saint-Germain and David Beckham during his milestone 50th appearance for England were also sold.

The latest auction highlights the growing demand for rare football memorabilia, with collectors continuing to place enormous value on items linked to some of the sport’s greatest moments and legendary players.