Trial over Diego Maradona’s Death Begins in Argentina

On Tuesday, Argentina commenced a highly anticipated trial concerning the medical team involved with football legend Diego Maradona, who passed away in 2020. This case has stirred considerable emotions in the South American nation, where the World Cup champion remains an iconic figure.

Family members and the accused arrived at the courthouse situated on the outskirts of the capital, Buenos Aires. Among those charged with homicide due to alleged negligence are Maradona’s nurses, a brain surgeon, and a psychiatrist.

Outside the San Isidro appeals court, supporters waved banners proclaiming ‘Justice for D10S’, a tribute using Maradona’s iconic shirt number along with the Spanish term for God.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Maradona is deeply missed.

Seven members of the medical team are set to appear in court, with the trial anticipated to span several months. An eighth individual is scheduled for a jury trial in July.

Maradona died at the age of 60 in November 2020 due to heart failure while recuperating from surgery to remove a blood clot, which took place just days prior.

The medical team vehemently denies the allegations of “simple homicide with eventual intent” regarding their treatment of the former Boca Juniors and Napoli star.

If found guilty, they could face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years.

The news of Maradona’s death sent shockwaves through Argentina, a nation that adored him for guiding the team to World Cup victory in 1986, leading to an outpouring of grief and disputes over accountability amidst Maradona’s long-standing struggles with drug addiction and health complications.

More than 100 witness testimonies are expected to be presented in front of a three-judge panel, including those from family members, medical professionals, friends, and journalists. On the first day of proceedings, prosecutors will officially present the indictment.

In 2021, investigators classified the case as culpable homicide, a charge comparable to involuntary manslaughter, as they concluded the accused were aware of the grave nature of Maradona’s health issues and failed to take the appropriate actions to save him.

“There are more than sufficient elements to demonstrate that Diego did not receive adequate treatment,” stated Mario Baudry, the lawyer representing one of Maradona’s sons who, alongside other family members, has been vocal about the case to the media.

“Justice has charged them with homicide with eventual intent. Let’s hope that justice prevails, which is what we all desire,” he added.

Among those on trial are psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque, psychologist Carlos Ángel Díaz, doctor Nancy Edith Forlini, nurse Ricardo Almirón, chief nurse Mariano Ariel Perroni, and clinical physician Pedro Pablo Di Spagna.

An eighth accused, nurse Dahiana Madrid, is slated for a separate trial in July, according to local media reports.