Bobby Charlton shirt is a winner in sale

The shirt worn by Sir Bobby Charlton in England’s 1966 World Cup semi-final match has sold for tens of thousands of pounds at auction. 

His signed shirt, consigned to auction more than a year ago, was part of the team’s finest hour. The football legend wore it during the semi-final match against Portugal on July 26, 1966 at London’s Empire Stadium, Wembley. England won 2-1 and Charlton scored both goals. The famous victory swept England through to the World Cup final against West Germany four days later.  

The shirt, described as a hugely important piece of football memorabilia, sparked a bidding battle at Hansons Auctioneers’ Derbyshire saleroom.  It sold to a private international online bidder for a total of £59,040 in the firm’s recent Sporting Auction.  

Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, said: “This important shirt was consigned to auction a year before news of Sir Bobby’s passing in October emerged. It had long been scheduled for Hansons’  November Sporting Auction. News of his loss came as huge shock to us all. We were deeply saddened. He was a football legend admired  by millions. 

“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.”