$26,400 for a pair of worn sneakers: That's how much a bidder paid for the shoes that Justin Bieber (32) wore during the halftime show at the World Cup final on July 19. That's approximately 23,045 euros. Auction house Christie's confirmed the sale on Wednesday.
The initial bids ranged between $2,000 and $4,000, but by the end of the bidding period, several times that amount was achieved. The auction, titled "One Goal", began on July 22 and ran for one week.
The proceeds will go to the Global Citizen Education Fund, a FIFA initiative. It supports grassroots organizations and learning programs and aims to facilitate children's access to education and soccer worldwide.
Why these sneakers are so special
During the performance, Bieber wore a low-top model from the Matter-Daddy line of his own label SKYLRK in beige with a pink detail on the heel. According to Christie's, this exact color combination made its debut at the final and is still not available for purchase to this day.
During his performance, Bieber actually presented only his own items: From the polo shirt to the shorts and socks to the sunglasses, Bieber was dressed exclusively in SKYLRK, even earbuds and guitar strap were included. Only the sneakers were up for auction.
SKYLRK launched rather quietly in 2025, initially with futuristic slides and a 3D-printed sneaker that Bieber developed together with manufacturer Zellerfeld. Meanwhile, the models sell out immediately after release. Before the final, there were two pop-up stores in New York for Bieber's brand, which includes consumer technology in addition to fashion.
First halftime show ever
The performance itself was groundbreaking. For the very first time, there was a halftime show at a World Cup final, and the regular fifteen-minute break was nearly doubled for it. Justin Bieber sang an acoustic version of his song "Everything Hallelujah" while accompanying himself on guitar. Alongside him on the field at New York New Jersey Stadium were Madonna, Shakira, BTS, and Burna Boy, among others, plus the Muppets and dozens of dancers. The program was curated by Coldplay singer Chris Martin.
Bieber wasn't the only star who pulled something from the closet for the auction. Shakira and BTS also contributed items, including the costume from Shakira's music video for "Dai Dai" as well as stage clothing from the K-pop group.
