Maradona heading to Australia

The former Argentina National team coach will speak exclusively to SBS's voice of football Les Murray in January, at the All Phones Arena in Sydney and the Melbourne Convention and Exhitbition Centre.

Named by FIFA along with Pele as one of FIFA's Players of the century, Maradona will be telling his story in his own words, complimented by footage of the maestro in action.

The visit represents Maradona's first trip to Australian shores since he captained Argentina to a 1-1 FIFA World Cup qualifying draw against the Socceroos in Sydney in 1993, and ‘Pibe de Oro’, the Golden boy is keen to return.

It has been many years since I have been to Australia so I am very excited to be coming to Sydney and Melbourne to share my story, all of it, with the people,” Maradona said.

Host Les Murray's admiration for the Argentine legend goes all the way back to 1979, when he commentated on the 1979 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, where a young Maradona first burst onto the scene.

“Diego Maradona is a personality that has polarised the football community like no other,” Murray said.

“From his unmistakable brilliance and unbridled confidence on the pitch to the many aberrations that have marked his private life, one thing is certain – he has a story to tell.

“I can’t wait to sit across from him and ask the questions, the real questions, that the Australian public are dying to ask.”

Tour producer John Denison says this represents an amazing chance for all Australian sports fans.

“To have the greatest footballer of the century stand up on stage and unfurl his unbelievable life story in his very own words will literally send shivers of excitement up the spine of sporting and football fans alike” Denison said.

“To highlight this monumental world event we have produced two compelling one off live experiences that fuses visual, live football action, money cant buy experiences, and a unique merchandise range.

“Like Diego’s life, the event is a celebration and we expect the fans to bring along the joyous atmosphere we see at football grounds around the world, which will only add to the experience.

“This is a once in a lifetime event that we expect to be very popular.”