New Trial Begins in Death of Soccer Legend Diego Maradona After Scandal Voids First Case

A new trial has begun in Argentina to determine responsibility for the death of Diego Maradona, nearly a year after the original case was invalidated by a major judicial scandal.

Maradona died on November 25, 2020, from heart failure while recovering at home following brain surgery. His death stunned the world and led to widespread calls for accountability.

The first trial, which lasted nearly three months, was annulled after Judge Julieta Makintach was removed from the case amid allegations of bias and improper involvement in a documentary about the proceedings.

Now, a new panel of judges is overseeing the retrial in San Isidro, near Buenos Aires. Prosecutors have charged seven medical professionals — including psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque, and psychologist Carlos Díaz — with manslaughter with implied malice. All have pleaded not guilty.

If convicted, the defendants could face between eight and 25 years in prison. Defense attorneys argue that Maradona had multiple serious health issues and deny any wrongdoing or coordinated negligence.

An eighth defendant, nurse Dahiana Madrid, has requested a separate jury trial, which has yet to be scheduled.

The case is expected to draw intense public attention, not only because of Maradona’s global legacy but also due to the controversy surrounding the original trial. About 100 witnesses are expected to testify, including medical experts and members of Maradona’s family.

The court will focus heavily on the final two weeks of Maradona’s life, aiming to determine whether his medical team failed to provide adequate care.

A verdict could come within a few months, though legal experts caution that appeals are likely regardless of the outcome.

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