Diego Maradona Death Case Returns to Court as New Trial Begins in Argentina

Fresh Judicial Proceedings Open Years After Football Icon’s Passing

A new court trial has officially begun in Argentina regarding the death of football legend Diego Maradona, reopening one of the most controversial medical-legal cases in sports history.

A judicial misconduct scandal forced the cancellation of the original trial, and the court declared it invalid, leading to the restart of the case a year later in the latest proceedings.

Maradona’s Final Days and Medical Condition

Maradona died in November 2020 at the age of 60 while recovering from brain surgery at a private residence in Tigre, located in the northern part of Buenos Aires.

Medical findings confirmed that he suffered heart failure and acute pulmonary edema, a condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs, just weeks after his operation.

At that time, a group of seven healthcare professionals—including doctors, nurses, and a psychiatrist—supervised his home care.

Serious Charges Against Medical Team

Authorities have charged the medical staff with homicide with possible intent, alleging that they continued treatment despite being aware of life-threatening risks.

Prosecutors argue that the care provided during Maradona’s recovery was severely negligent.

If found guilty, the accused could face prison sentences between eight and 25 years.

First Trial Collapsed After Judge Controversy

Evidence emerged showing that Judge Julieta Makintach was involved in a documentary connected to the case, and the court halted the earlier trial mid-process.

The situation raised concerns over judicial ethics, leading to the annulment of the trial in May 2025 and her later impeachment.

Defense Rejects Criminal Intent

Lawyers representing the accused have strongly denied any criminal responsibility.

They maintain that Maradona’s death was the result of natural medical complications and reject claims of intentional wrongdoing.

Defense statements also argue that allegations of a murder plan are unfair and unsupported.

Global Impact of Maradona’s Death

The death of the 1986 World Cup winner in 2020 led to massive public grief across Argentina, with large-scale street gatherings despite COVID-19 restrictions at the time.

New Trial to Hear Extensive Witness Testimony

The reopened case will include testimony from approximately 120 witnesses and is expected to continue until July, as the court reassesses whether medical negligence contributed to Maradona’s death.