Maradona’s medical team faces trial over homicide charges

The trial of seven medical professionals involved in Diego Maradona’s care is set to begin on Tuesday in Buenos Aires, focusing on accusations of negligent treatment during his recovery from brain surgery. Prosecutors argue that Maradona’s death in 2020, at the age of 60, could have been prevented. The case examines claims that the Argentine soccer legend’s doctors and caregivers failed to provide proper medical attention in his final days, leading to charges of culpable homicide.

Maradona, widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, suffered a fatal heart attack. He was at his rented residence in Tigre, an affluent district north of Buenos Aires. At the time, he was recovering from brain surgery to remove a blood clot.

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Trial of Maradona’s Medical Team

Despite his history of addiction, obesity, and alcoholism, prosecutors argue that Maradona’s death was preventable, had he received proper medical care. An investigative medical panel found that his treatment was “inappropriate, deficient and reckless,” prompting legal action against his caregivers.

Seven medical professionals are on trial for their roles in Diego Maradona’s care. Leopoldo Luque, his personal doctor and neurosurgeon, performed his brain surgery and oversaw his transition to home care. Psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov prescribed medications for his anxiety and depression, while addiction specialist Carlos Diaz managed his alcohol dependency treatment. Nancy Forlini supervised his home care, and Mariano Perroni coordinated the nursing staff. Nurse Ricardo Almirón monitored Maradona’s health daily, and clinical physician Pedro Pablo Di Spagna was also part of his medical team. Additionally, nurse Gisela Dahiana Madrid has requested a separate jury trial at a later date.

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Prosecutors have built the case against Maradona’s caregivers using extensive evidence. This includes over 120,000 messages and audio recordings. The recordings capture conversations between the medical team and other involved parties.

Prosecutors argue Maradona was discharged too soon after brain surgery, received inadequate home care, lacked essential medical equipment, and had symptoms of heart failure ignored. The defense claims he resisted treatment, choosing outpatient care, and presents a forensic study stating his death was “sudden and without agony.” Luque insists it occurred unexpectedly in his sleep.

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