Trial of Healthcare Professionals Involved in Diego Maradona’s Death Begins

An Argentine court has begun the trial of seven healthcare professionals accused of negligence in the death of soccer legend Diego Maradona. The defendants, including a neurosurgeon and psychiatrist, may face up to 25 years in prison if found guilty of manslaughter. Family members were present at the courtroom, marking a significant moment in this high-profile case.

On March 11, 2025, an Argentine court commenced the trial of seven healthcare professionals implicated in the alleged negligence contributing to the death of legendary soccer player Diego Maradona at the age of 60. The court’s proceedings will evaluate whether the defendants, including a neurosurgeon, a psychiatrist, and various medical staff, are guilty of manslaughter, with potential sentences reaching up to 25 years in prison.

Maradona’s passing was pronounced following a cardiac arrest occurring at his residence near Buenos Aires on November 25, 2020. Present in the courtroom were his emotional family members, including his eldest daughters, Dalma and Giannina, alongside Verónica Ojeda, his former partner, and another daughter, Jana. Prior to the trial’s start, Ojeda showcased a video of Maradona’s son, Diego Fernando, donning a t-shirt emblazoned with Maradona’s image and demanding “justice.”

The trial has intensified focus on Leonardo Luque, the neurosurgeon who oversaw Maradona’s care during the final four years of his life and performed a critical procedure to alleviate a blood clot shortly before Maradona’s death. Additionally, six other professionals face charges, including psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, who prescribed drugs to the football star until his demise, and psychologist Carlos Diaz. Others include Nancy Forlini, Mariano Perroni, doctor Pedro Di Spagna, and nurse Ricardo Almiron, who all played significant roles in Maradona’s healthcare. A separate jury trial is planned for nurse Gisela Madrid later in the year.

The trial against the seven healthcare professionals accused of negligence in the death of Diego Maradona marks a significant moment in Argentine legal and sports history. As the court evaluates the evidence and testimonies surrounding this prominent case, the potential ramifications for those charged are profound, with maximum sentences reaching 25 years. The involvement of Maradona’s family underscores the emotional weight of the proceedings as they seek accountability for the soccer icon’s tragic death.

Original Source: torontosun.com