New Trial Set to Commence in Argentina Following the Death of Football Icon Diego Maradona

Maradona, hailed as one of the greatest footballers of all time, passed away in November 2020 at the age of 60 while recuperating from brain surgery at a private residence.

He succumbed to heart failure and acute pulmonary oedema—an ailment causing fluid build-up in the lungs—two weeks post-surgery.

His medical team of seven has been indicted over the circumstances surrounding his recovery in the Tigre suburb of northern Buenos Aires, which prosecutors have labelled as gross negligence.

However, just two and a half months into their trial, the proceedings were interrupted following hours of emotional testimony from witnesses, including Maradona’s children.

The trial was annulled in May 2025 after it was revealed that one of the participating judges had connections to a documentary about the case, which could have breached ethical guidelines.

This judge, Julieta Makintach, was subsequently impeached.

The new trial will consider testimonies from around 120 witnesses to ascertain whether Maradona’s medical team played a part in his death.

Seven healthcare professionals—including doctors, psychologists, and nurses—are facing homicide charges, alleged to have pursued a treatment path despite being aware it might result in death.

Should they be found guilty, they face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years.

The defence argues that the brilliant yet troubled Maradona, who struggled with cocaine and alcohol addictions, died of natural causes.

“If there’s one thing that has been ruled out, it’s any malicious criminal intent to kill Maradona. Anyone who continues to suggest that is being cruel to both the family and the accused,” asserted Vadim Mischanchuk, the lawyer for psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, during an interview with Radio Con Vos on Sunday.

Maradona’s death in 1986 World Cup champion status led to an outpouring of grief, with hundreds of thousands of Argentines taking to the streets in mourning amidst the Covid pandemic.

The trial is anticipated to continue until July.