Diego Maradona net worth has been a topic of much discussion, even after his passing. As one of the greatest football players in history, his finances were shaped by massive salaries, high-profile endorsements, and personal struggles.
Let’s dive into how he earned millions, the financial challenges he faced, and what his salary looked like throughout his legendary football career.
Contents
- 1 Quick Facts
- 2 What is the Net Worth Of Diego Maradona in 2024?
- 3 Salary and Finance Overview
- 3.1 How Did He Earn Millions Through His Football Career?
- 3.2 His Major Endorsements and Sponsorship Deals
- 3.3 Salary and Transfer Fees Throughout His Football Career
- 3.4 The Financial Impact of His Personal Struggles
- 3.5 How Did Tax Issues in Italy Affect His Wealth?
- 3.6 Achievements That Elevated His Fame and Influence
- 3.7 Coaching Career and Post-Retirement Ventures
- 4 FAQs about Diego Maradona
- 4.1 How tall was Diego Maradona?
- 4.2 How many children did Diego Maradona have?
- 4.3 Who was his wife?
- 4.4 What teams did he play for during his career?
- 4.5 What awards did Diego Maradona win?
- 4.6 When did he coach the Argentine national team?
- 4.7 What was the “Hand of God” goal?
- 4.8 Did he ever test positive for drugs?
- 5 Conclusion
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Diego Armando Maradona Franco |
| Popular Name | Diego Maradona |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | October 30, 1960 |
| Age | 60 (Died: November 25, 2020) |
| Parents | Diego Maradona “Chitoro”, Dalma Franco |
| Siblings | Hugo, Raúl, 4 sisters |
| Birthplace | Lanús, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina |
| Nationality | Argentine |
| Ethnicity | Guaraní, Galician, Italian, Croatian |
| Education | N/A |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Claudia Villafañe (div. 2004) |
| Children | Dalma, Gianinna, Diego Fernando, others |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $500,000 |
| Source of Wealth | Football, Endorsements |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (1.65 meters) |
What is the Net Worth Of Diego Maradona in 2024?
As of 2024, Diego Maradona’s estimated net worth remains at $500,000, a relatively modest sum considering his iconic career.
During his lifetime, Maradona earned millions from playing for clubs like Barcelona and Napoli, but financial struggles and legal issues left a significant impact on his wealth.
Compared to other football legends, Maradona’s financial outcome was notably lower.
Here are some notable names related to Diego Maradona’s career and life:
- Lionel Messi
- Pelé
- Puma
- Coca-Cola
- Napoli
- Boca Juniors
- Barcelona
- Hublot
- Sevilla
For readers interested in learning about other successful footballers, explore the top football earners in the wealthiest footballers globally.
Salary and Finance Overview
How Did He Earn Millions Through His Football Career?
Diego Maradona’s football career began at the age of 15 when he debuted for Argentinos Juniors. Over the next few years, he became known for his dribbling and playmaking skills, eventually leading to a transfer to Boca Juniors for $4 million.
His remarkable performance at Boca Juniors earned him worldwide recognition, and in 1982, Barcelona paid a then-record $7.6 million to bring him on board.
In 1984, Napoli paid $10.5 million, where he reached his peak, winning two Serie A titles and a UEFA Cup, significantly increasing his salary.
His Major Endorsements and Sponsorship Deals
Maradona’s fame extended beyond football, with lucrative endorsement deals from Puma, Coca-Cola, and Hublot, adding millions to his income. These partnerships kept him financially stable, although his personal struggles later affected his wealth.
Salary and Transfer Fees Throughout His Football Career
Maradona’s transfers were revolutionary at the time. He broke world record transfer fees twice, first with his transfer to Barcelona for $7.6 million, followed by his move to Napoli for $10.5 million.
His salary peaked during his years at Napoli, where he earned around $43 million between 1984 and 1991, which, adjusted for inflation, would be about $100 million in today’s terms.
While his time at Napoli was financially rewarding, it was also marred by fines and missed payments due to off-field issues, particularly his struggles with addiction. This financial mismanagement set the stage for future difficulties.
The Financial Impact of His Personal Struggles
Maradona’s financial standing declined due to cocaine addiction and connections with the Camorra mafia in Naples.
He faced fines from Napoli and was banned for 15 months after testing positive for drugs, reducing his earning potential. His unpaid taxes in Italy, totaling 37 million euros, added further strain.
How Did Tax Issues in Italy Affect His Wealth?
While playing for Napoli, Maradona became involved in a tax dispute that lasted over 30 years. By 2009, his debt had increased to 37 million euros, mainly from interest. Despite asset seizures, most of the debt remained unpaid, worsening his financial situation.
Achievements That Elevated His Fame and Influence
Despite his personal troubles, Maradona’s footballing achievements are what truly solidified his legacy. His performance in the 1986 FIFA World Cup, where he led Argentina to victory and won the Golden Ball, ensured his place in football history.
In addition to his international accolades, his influence at Napoli, where he led the club to their first Serie A title, cemented his status as a legend.
These achievements made him one of the most influential players in football history, and although his finances suffered in later years, his legacy in the sport remains untarnished.
Coaching Career and Post-Retirement Ventures
After retiring from football, Diego Maradona transitioned into coaching. He took on roles with several international clubs, including Argentina’s national team, Dorados de Sinaloa in Mexico, and Al Wasl in Dubai.
Though he never replicated his success as a player in his coaching career, these roles provided him with steady income in his later years.
FAQs about Diego Maradona
How tall was Diego Maradona?
He was 5 feet 5 inches tall (1.65 meters).
How many children did Diego Maradona have?
Maradona had several children, including Dalma, Gianinna, and Diego Fernando.
Who was his wife?
Maradona was married to Claudia Villafañe, though they divorced in 2004.
What teams did he play for during his career?
Maradona played for clubs like Argentinos Juniors, Boca Juniors, Barcelona, Napoli, Sevilla, and Newell’s Old Boys.
What awards did Diego Maradona win?
Maradona won the FIFA Player of the 20th Century, the Golden Ball at the 1986 World Cup, and many more.
When did he coach the Argentine national team?
Maradona coached the Argentine national team from 2008 to 2010.
What was the “Hand of God” goal?
The “Hand of God” refers to Maradona’s controversial goal during the 1986 World Cup, where he scored using his hand.
Did he ever test positive for drugs?
Yes, Maradona tested positive for cocaine in 1991 and ephedrine in 1994.
Conclusion
I hope this analysis gives you a clearer picture of Diego Maradona’s financial journey. If you enjoyed this content, feel free to share, comment, or check out more on Aupeo.
