An Argentine court has initiated the trial of seven medical professionals linked to the negligent care that led to the death of football icon Diego Maradona, who passed away at the age of 60. Maradona experienced a cardiac arrest at his home just outside Buenos Aires on November 25, 2020, while under the supervision of these healthcare providers.
The proceedings involve three judges evaluating whether the accused—encompassing a neurosurgeon, a psychiatrist, and several medical staff—are guilty of manslaughter. If convicted, they could face a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison.
Maradona’s family, including his daughters Dalma and Giannina, was present in the courtroom, visibly emotional during the proceedings. A poignant moment occurred when Verónica Ojeda, Maradona’s former partner, shared a video on social media depicting Maradona’s son, Diego Fernando, wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with the word “justice” alongside his father’s image.
At the centre of the trial is neurosurgeon Leonardo Luque, who was Maradona’s primary physician during the last four years of his life. He had performed surgery to remove a blood clot from Maradona’s brain only weeks before his death.
In addition to Luque, the trial encompasses psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, who prescribed medication to Maradona prior to his passing; psychologist Carlos Díaz; Nancy Forlini, who coordinated the medical service hired to care for Maradona; Mariano Perroni, the representative from the nursing service company; doctor Pedro Di Spagna, the doctor overseeing Maradona’s treatment; and nurse Ricardo Almirón. Another nurse, Gisela Madrid, will be tried separately by a jury later in the year.
The trial marks a significant moment as it seeks accountability and answers surrounding the circumstances leading to the loss of one of football’s most legendary figures.