1966 World Cup flag expected to fetch more than $5,000 at auction

By Dean Murray

The flag that flew above England's 1966 World Cup win is up for auction - and is expected to fetch more than $5k (£3.9k)

The Union Jack was displayed above Wembley Stadium during the 1966 FIFA World Cup Finals, where England won 4-2 against West Germany.

New Jersey-based auctioneers Goldin said it is a Union Jack rather than the St George's Cross, reflecting the FA's deliberate choice of the broader British national symbol to represent the host nation across the tournament.

The lot, with bids already at $5,000 (£3,900), comes from the auction of the collection of Birol Nadir, former minority shareholder of Arsenal Football Club.

He said: "The 1966 World Cup remains the defining moment in English football history, and the Union Jack that flew above Wembley throughout the tournament is a powerful symbol of that achievement.

"It has been a genuine honor to preserve this remarkable piece of football history within my collection."

Also featured in the sale is the football jersey Bobby Moore wore in his final World Cup appearance.

The iconic 1970 quarter-final match in Mexico saw West Germany win 3-2 after extra time to eliminate the defending champions.

The jersey is listed with bidding to start at $100,000 (£78,000).

Birol Nadir adds: "Together with Bobby Moore’s final World Cup shirt, these are not simply collectibles, they are enduring pieces of the story that shaped England’s greatest footballing triumph."

The auction is until July 25.