Diego Maradona, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players in history, passed away five years ago today. On this solemn anniversary, we reflect on his poignant interview with the Mirror.
During our conversation, Maradona shared insights on his early endorsement of VAR, his battles with cocaine addiction, and his deep passion for both football and his family. As a tribute to his remarkable legacy, Argentina’s bank authorities have introduced a special commemorative coin ahead of the 2026 World Cup, celebrating his iconic ‘goal of the century’. It was an honor that Maradona chose to engage with the Mirror back in 2005, expressing his admiration for English striker Wayne Rooney.
I vividly recall the moment after our discussion when Maradona was about to coach young players. When asked how he would respond if one of them scored a goal, he humorously replied, “I would say good, very good,” with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. Despite his famous ‘Hand of God’ goal that would have been disallowed with video technology, Maradona was a proponent of its introduction, showcasing his forward-thinking nature.
In a transformational phase, Maradona had shed weight, improved his fitness, and exuded a sense of calmness. He candidly expressed regrets about not spending more time with his daughter due to his past struggles with cocaine addiction, emphasizing the newfound joy and purpose in his life.
When asked about the greatest football player ever, Maradona playfully quipped, “My mum said it’s me – and everyone listens to my mum!” His impact on the sport continues to resonate, even five years after his untimely death at the age of 60.
To honor Maradona’s unforgettable moment in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final against England, where he scored his legendary goal, the Central Bank of the Argentine Republic has issued a special silver coin. This iconic play, recognized as FIFA’s Goal of the 20th Century, will mark its 40th anniversary next summer during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The commemorative coin features a striking design symbolizing Maradona’s extraordinary dribble past English players, immortalizing his brilliance on the football field. It captures the essence of his passion for the game, embodying the spirit of football enthusiasts worldwide.
As Argentina prepares to participate in the upcoming World Cup, commemorating forty years since Maradona’s historic achievement, the coin serves as a tangible tribute to his enduring legacy. With a design showcasing his remarkable play and capturing the essence of football’s universal appeal, the coin represents a cherished memento for fans and collectors alike.
The Central Bank of Argentina revealed that the coin, measuring four centimeters in width and weighing 27 grams, features a distinctive “reeded edge” for authenticity. Additionally, gold coins with a similar design will be available for purchase globally, emphasizing the universal reverence for Maradona’s unparalleled contributions to the sport.
The commemorative coins hold a symbolic value of 10 Argentine pesos, approximately 50p, serving as a lasting tribute to Maradona’s indelible mark on football history. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of players and fans, ensuring that his memory remains etched in the annals of football folklore.