Khaberni - On Tuesday, a new trial began for the accused in the case of the death of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona, a year after a scandal that involved one of the judges and led to the annulment of the first trial.
Maradona, who is considered one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, died in November 2020 at the age of 60, during his recovery period from brain surgery in a private residence. His medical team, consisting of seven individuals, is accused of gross negligence that caused his death.
Maradona's death followed a heart failure and a severe pulmonary crisis, a condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs, two weeks post-surgery.
7 defendants and 120 witnesses
The prosecution has accused the medical team, composed of seven people and responsible for his care during his recovery in the Tigre suburb north of Buenos Aires, of circumstances described as "gross negligence".
However, the trial was halted after two and a half months from its start and hours after emotional testimonies, some characterized by tears, delivered by witnesses including Maradona's children.
The trial was annulled in May 2025 after it was revealed that one of the supervising judges had participated in a documentary about the case, which was considered a potential breach of ethical rules.
Judge Julieta Mackintosh stepped down while simultaneously facing criminal proceedings due to her conduct.
The new trial, which is scheduled to hear about 120 witnesses, will seek to determine whether Maradona's medical team was responsible for his death.
Seven healthcare workers, including doctors, psychologists, and nurses who were overseeing his treatment at the time, are accused of committing a crime of murder with the possibility of being charged with "probable intentional homicide," implying continuing a treatment knowing it could lead to death. If convicted, the defendants could face prison sentences ranging between eight years and 25 years.
Conversely, the defense team asserts that Maradona who led a tumultuous life and struggled with addiction and alcohol, died of natural causes.
The trial continues until July next year
Lawyer Vadim Mishchantchuk, defending the psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, stated during a weekend interview with "Radio Con Vos": "If there was one thing that has been ruled out, it is the existence of a deliberate criminal plan to kill Diego Maradona."
The trial is expected to continue at least until next July.
Maradona's legacy still dominates the public memory in Argentina, where he remains a prominent national icon, stirring significant legal and emotional controversy in his life and death.
The death of the 1986 Mexico World Cup hero plunged Argentina into mourning, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tens of thousands of mourners lined up to take a final look at the former star of Boca Juniors and Napoli, as his body lay in the presidential palace.
