A shirt worn by Roger Hunt during England's triumphant 1966 World Cup campaign is expected to fetch up to £8,000 when it goes under the hammer this weekend. The long-sleeved white shirt was worn by the Liverpool striker in a group game against France on July 20, 1966, where he scored both goals in a 2-0 victory.
Hunt's Role in England's World Cup Victory
Hunt played in every match of the tournament and scored three goals, helping England secure their place in the knockout stages. The team went on to defeat West Germany 4-2 at Wembley Stadium, with Hunt's contributions proving crucial. The forward earned 34 caps for England and scored 18 international goals during his career. He spent the majority of his club career at Liverpool and passed away in 2021 at the age of 83.
Auction Details and Provenance
The signed shirt will be sold by Henry Aldridge & Son auctioneers in Devizes, Wiltshire, on Saturday. Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge highlighted the significance of the item, stating: “In this most important of World Cup weeks where England could end 60 years of hurt, we are delighted to be offering Roger Hunt’s match-used shirt from the France group game where he scored twice. With exceptional provenance it is a truly tangible link to the last time England won the World Cup.”
Personal Connection to the Vendor
The shirt was given to the vendor's father after the World Cup. Hunt spent much of his National Service in the Devizes area and even played for Devizes Town during that time. He lodged with the vendor's family most weekends, forming a lifelong friendship. The lot also includes copies of photographs: one of Hunt with the vendor as a child, another with her father, and a third taken more recently in the vendor's garden.
