Chelsea icon and former England captain John Terry is parting with a significant collection of personal football memorabilia in a special charity auction. The lots include some of the most iconic, and personally painful, items from his storied career, all sold to benefit the John Terry Foundation.
The Infamous Shirt and a Captain's Redemption
Among the most poignant items is the match-worn shirt from the 2008 Champions League final in Moscow. It was in this kit that Terry infamously slipped and missed the crucial penalty kick against Manchester United, a moment he described as one of the lowest of his career. In a podcast appearance last December, Terry revealed the depths of his despair, admitting he had contemplated suicide following that devastating defeat. The shirt, described as 'stained with tears', is now estimated to fetch around £3,750.
In stark contrast, the auction also features the famous full kit he wore when lifting the Champions League trophy in 2012. Despite being suspended for the final in Munich, Terry wore his full strip to join the celebrations, capturing an iconic image of redemption. This kit carries a lower estimate of £1,875.
Prized Possessions and Historic Medals
The collection is a testament to Terry's remarkable career. The standout item by value is expected to be his Premier League winner's medal from the 2004-05 season. As captain under José Mourinho, Terry led Chelsea to their first top-flight title in 50 years. This piece of history has a pre-sale estimate of up to £75,000.
Other notable lots include:
- A miniature replica of the 2012 Champions League trophy (Estimate: £3,750).
- Match-worn shirts swapped with global superstars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
- The shirt of Arsenal legend Thierry Henry from the 'Invincibles' campaign (Estimate: £750).
- Terry's final Chelsea shirt and his last Aston Villa shirt from his playing career.
- An England shirt from the 2010 World Cup defeat to Germany in South Africa.
A Legacy Sale for Charity
The online auction will be conducted by Goldin on 31st December. All proceeds are intended for the John Terry Foundation, which will direct funds to charities described as being 'close to his heart'. A spokesperson for the auction house praised the collection, calling it a testament to a 'remarkable' career.
'When discussing the best defenders in the history of English football, the name John Terry often features prominently in the conversation,' a statement read. 'Goldin is proud to present an extraordinary selection of memorabilia coming directly from the personal collection of John Terry.'
This sale offers fans a rare chance to own a piece of Premier League and Chelsea history, while contributing to charitable causes supported by one of the modern era's most successful captains.
