Fresh trial set to begin in Argentina regarding the death of football icon Diego Maradona
Maradona, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history, passed away in November 2020 at 60 years old, during his recovery from brain surgery at a private home.
His death resulted from heart failure and acute pulmonary oedema, where fluid builds up in the lungs, just two weeks after the operation.
A team of seven medical professionals faced charges related to the inadequate care provided during his recovery in the Tigre area north of Buenos Aires, which prosecutors called severely negligent.
However, two and a half months into the trial, following emotional testimonies from witnesses such as Maradona's children, the case was suspended.
In May 2025, the trial was declared invalid after it was revealed that one judge had participated in a documentary on the matter, which may have violated ethical standards.
That judge, Julieta Makintach, was subsequently removed from office.
The upcoming trial will involve around 120 witnesses and aims to establish whether Maradona's medical team bears responsibility for his passing.
Seven healthcare workers, including doctors, psychologists, and nurses who cared for him at the time, are charged with homicide potentially involving intent, meaning they allegedly continued actions aware of the fatal risks.
Conviction could lead to sentences ranging from eight to 25 years in prison.
The defence argues that the charismatic Maradona, who struggled with cocaine and alcohol dependencies, succumbed to natural causes.
"One element clearly dismissed is any deliberate criminal scheme to end Maradona's life. Claiming otherwise is harsh on both the family and the defendants," said Vadim Mischanchuk, attorney for psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, in an interview on Radio Con Vos on Sunday.
The news of the 1986 World Cup winner's death prompted hundreds of thousands of Argentines to gather in sorrow on the streets, even during the Covid outbreak.
The proceedings are anticipated to continue until July.