New trial over Maradona’s death begins in Argentina

A new trial over the death of football icon Diego Maradona has begun in Argentina, nearly a year after the original proceedings collapsed due to a judicial scandal.

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Maradona, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history, died in November 2020 at the age of 60 while recovering from surgery for a brain clot. Forensic experts said he died of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema, a condition caused by fluid buildup in the lungs, after enduring prolonged suffering during home care.

Seven members of his medical team, including doctors, nurses and a psychologist, are accused of gross negligence over the conditions of his recovery. Prosecutors argue that decisions taken during his home convalescence contributed to his death, with the charges amounting to homicide with possible intent. If convicted, they face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years.

The initial trial was halted after controversy involving judge Julieta Makintach, who was found to have participated in a clandestine documentary about the case that included unauthorised courtroom recordings. The scandal led to the annulment of the proceedings.

The retrial, taking place in San Isidro, is expected to hear from around 120 witnesses. Among those present at the opening session were Maradona’s daughters, Dalma, Gianinna and Jana, along with his former partner Veronica Ojeda.

During the hearing, defence lawyer Francisco Oneto called for broader public access to the case, saying the proceedings should be fully televised rather than limited to key moments.

The defence has rejected claims of wrongdoing, insisting the former Napoli and Boca Juniors star died of natural causes. Vadim Mischanchuk, representing psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, said: “If there’s one thing that has been ruled out, it’s a malicious criminal plan to kill Maradona.”

The case is expected to run until at least July, as the court examines whether medical decisions during Maradona’s final days played a role in his death. His passing in 2020 triggered widespread mourning across Argentina, with tens of thousands of fans lining up to pay their respects as his body lay in state at the presidential palace during the Covid-19 pandemic.