England's defence in jeopardy

It remains one of the most notorious episodes in World Cup history. Just days before the start of the 1970 World Cup tournament in Mexico, the preparations of reigning champions England were jolted when their captain Bobby Moore was arrested in Bogotá, Colombia, accused of stealing a bracelet from a hotel shop. Information sourced from BBC Sport, the Guardian and FIFA archives.

Resulting in a diplomatic frenzy

The allegation centered around an emerald bracelet taken from the Fuego Verde jewellery shop in the Hotel Tequendama, where the England squad were staying en route to Mexico. It resulted in a diplomatic frenzy.

A captain in custody

Moore was held under house arrest for four days and released just three days before the tournament kicked off. Although treated well, the embarrassment and uncertainty loomed large over the national captain ahead of a major tournament.

Political crisis averted

Intense diplomatic pressure, involving the British ambassador, the Colombian president and the director of Colombia's national intelligence agency, persuaded the judge overseeing the case of the political consequences of jailing Moore, and the awkward implications for Colombia, given world opinion.

Moore gets to Mexico

Despite the incident, an exonerated Moore started all England matches in Mexico. He led the team to the quarterfinals, maintaining his composure and world-class performances under media scrutiny.

Media frenzy and fan reaction

British tabloids sensationalized the arrest. Back home, fans and pundits were largely supportive, with many believing Moore was the victim of a setup or misunderstanding.

Conspiracy theories

Speculation swirled that Moore had been targeted. Some believed it was a local ploy for attention, others that Colombia's murky emerald trade was trying to extort money out of Moore. One theory had it that the Brazilian Football Association was conspiring to eliminate their toughest potential opponents.

Legacy untarnished

Moore's sportsmanship and dignity throughout the scandal only enhanced his reputation. Decades later, the incident is remembered as a bizarre footnote in an otherwise exemplary career.