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Diego Maradona's net worth: the fortune of the footballer who marked history forever

Discover the total fortune of legendary star Diego Maradona: his net worth, wealth, contracts, and more.

By Angel Carrillo Hernández

Maradona | Photo: @fifaworldcup_es
Maradona | Photo: @fifaworldcup_es
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Diego Armando Maradona is a figure who transcends football. His legacy lies not only on the field but also in the financial and cultural world. Nearly four years after his passing, interest in his estate remains alive, with debates about the net worth of his fortune and its destiny. Maradona’s life was marked by success, controversies, and an extravagant lifestyle that directly impacted his financial situation. From his humble beginnings in Villa Fiorito to becoming a global legend, "Pelusa" accumulated a fortune that reflects both his achievements and his personal and legal challenges.

The early financial days of a legend

Maradona’s professional career began in 1977 with Argentinos Juniors, where he signed his first contract at the age of 16. Despite his young age, his monthly salary was significant for the time, and he quickly established himself as one of Argentina’s most promising football talents. This initial step in his professional career marked the beginning of a series of million-dollar contracts that catapulted him to international stardom.

In 1981, Maradona moved to Boca Juniors, where his transfer was completed for $4 million, an impressive amount at the time. However, his life drastically changed in 1982 with his transfer to FC Barcelona. The deal reached 1,200 million pesetas, equivalent to $22 million today, setting a record for the time. Two years later, his move to Napoli made him the most expensive player in the world, costing $7.5 million. These contracts not only brought him sporting prestige but also cemented his status as an influential and wealthy figure.

Advertising contracts and personal assets

In addition to sports contracts, Maradona diversified his income through advertising deals. His partnerships with global brands like Hublot, Coca-Cola, and Puma generated millions of dollars. These commercial agreements reflected his media appeal and ability to connect with a global audience, making him an icon beyond football.

Regarding personal assets, Maradona owned properties in various countries. In Argentina, he had residences in exclusive areas like Villa Devoto and Puerto Madero. During his time in Italy, he acquired properties that reflected his success with Napoli, while in Dubai, he lived in luxurious mansions during his tenure as a coach in the United Arab Emirates. Similarly, in Belarus, he received extravagant gifts, such as an amphibious truck and a diamond ring valued at €300,000. These assets were a reflection of his ostentatious lifestyle and his ability to live large.

Maradona's net worth: estimates and controversies

The exact net worth of Maradona’s fortune has been a subject of speculation and debate. Estimates, such as those from Celebrity Net Worth, suggest that at the time of his death, his estate was worth around $500,000. In contrast, Forbes estimated that over his lifetime, Maradona generated total income of up to $500 million. These starkly different figures highlight both the financial highs and lows of the former player and the challenges in tracing his economic activities.

Factors such as tax issues and personal decisions significantly influenced his financial situation. In Italy, he accumulated a tax debt of €53 million, while in Argentina, he faced multiple lawsuits related to properties and contracts. Despite these challenges, his financial legacy remains a fascinating topic that continues to capture public attention.

The inheritance dispute

Following Maradona’s death in November 2020, his inheritance became the focus of legal disputes. His legally recognized children—Dalma, Gianinna, Jana, Diego Jr., and Diego Fernando—were the main heirs, but at least six other individuals filed paternity claims. These included young people in Cuba and Argentina seeking recognition as descendants of the star.

The judicial process to resolve the succession of his assets is being conducted in Argentina, under the jurisdiction of the Civil and Commercial Court No. 20 in La Plata. The disputes encompass both physical properties and image rights and other income sources, adding complexity to the case. The inheritance reflects not only the economic value of his estate but also his legacy as a global figure.

Tax issues and their impact on his fortune

One of the most controversial aspects of Maradona’s life was his tax problems. During his stay in Italy, he accumulated a massive debt with the tax authorities due to unpaid taxes, resulting in the confiscation of some assets. In Argentina, he faced lawsuits related to contracts and properties, including conflicts with his ex-wife Claudia Villafañe. These issues not only affected his financial situation but also highlighted the challenges of managing such a vast fortune.

Maradona’s cultural legacy

Despite the controversies, Diego Maradona’s legacy goes far beyond financial matters. His impact on football and popular culture is unquestionable. He is remembered as one of the greatest players of all time, with iconic moments such as the "Hand of God" goal and the "Goal of the Century" in the 1986 World Cup. His influence transcends generations, and his image remains a symbol of passion, talent, and dedication to the sport.

Even after his death, Maradona continues to generate income. His name and image are used in documentaries, merchandise, and football-related events. This not only ensures the preservation of his memory but also reinforces his status as an immortal figure in the sport.

Conclusion: Maradona, an eternal legacy

Diego Maradona was not only a football icon but also a complex character whose life was filled with success, controversies, and a unique lifestyle. His fortune, surrounded by mysteries and disputes, reflects both his sporting triumphs and the challenges he faced off the field. As legal processes unfold and his financial impact is analyzed, his figure remains a topic of global fascination. His legacy, in both the sports and cultural realms, endures as a testament to his greatness and the complexity of his life.


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