Real Madrid, one of the most prestigious football clubs in the world, is set to offer a piece of its illustrious history to avid fans and collectors alike. Sotheby’s, the renowned auction house, has announced the impending auction of individual lockers from the club’s former home dressing room at the revered Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This move coincides with the extensive renovation of the stadium, which has seen investments surpassing €1 billion since its inception in 2020, aimed at transforming this iconic venue into a modern marvel.
The lockers which are up for bidding are not just mere pieces of furniture; they encapsulate the essence and glory of Real Madrid’s storied past. Functioning from 2001 until 2022, these lockers were part of the space where legendary players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, and others prepared for battle. The auction will feature 24 individual lockers, each accompanied by a player’s name and photo, with the bidding starting at a minimum of £10,000 ($12,967) per unit.
What makes this auction particularly thrilling is the extraordinary success witnessed by Real Madrid during the time these lockers were in use. The 2021-2022 season was particularly noteworthy, culminating in a LaLiga and Champions League double, with star players such as Karim Benzema and Luka Modric gracing the locker rooms. Buyers are not merely purchasing a locker; they are acquiring a tangible part of a grand legacy that includes a staggering 544 home matches and 20 significant trophies in just over two decades, highlighting the continuous success of the club on both domestic and international stages.
Authenticity and Purpose Behind the Auction
Sotheby’s stacks the appeal even higher by providing bidders with a certificate of authenticity and a detailed list of the players who occupied each locker over the years. Such documentation amplifies the personal connection a buyer may feel, as it links them directly to names and memories cherished by football enthusiasts around the globe.
Moreover, part of the proceeds from this auction will benefit the Real Madrid Foundation, demonstrating the club’s commitment to social responsibility. This initiative brings an added layer of significance, portraying the auction not just as a commercial endeavor but also as a means to contribute to charitable causes.
In addition to the lockers, a stunning 10-foot wide mosaic of the Real Madrid badge, which once stood sentinel at the entrance to the dressing room, will also be auctioned, reinforcing a sense of nostalgia and pride. Bidding for this emblematic piece starts at £12,000 ($15,561), adding further allure to the event.
The exhibition of these items will be showcased in London from November 20 to 26, while the bidding process commences on November 12 and will last for two weeks. This presents an exciting opportunity for collectors worldwide to connect with the rich legacy of Real Madrid in an interactive format. Overall, this auction on the historic relics of one of football’s giants provides not just an opportunity for ownership but also a chance to celebrate and remember a vibrant chapter in sports history.