The case centers around accusations that Maradona's medical staff failed to provide adequate care, leading to his untimely passing at the age of 60.
Maradona's Medical Team Faces Justice in Landmark Trial
Maradona's Medical Team Faces Justice in Landmark Trial
The trial of medical professionals involved in Diego Maradona's care begins, highlighting alleged negligence in the football star's tragic death.
The long-anticipated trial of medical personnel responsible for the late Argentine football legend Diego Maradona has commenced in Buenos Aires. Maradona died from a heart attack in November 2020 while recovering at home from a surgery for a brain blood clot. Prosecutors assert that his death was preventable, claiming negligence on the part of the medical staff involved in his treatment.
The defendants, which include a neurosurgeon, a psychiatrist, and other medical professionals, contend that Maradona had chosen to discontinue his treatment and that he should have remained in the hospital for a longer duration. If found guilty of the charge "homicide with possible intent," they could face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years.
During the opening arguments, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari emphasized the seriousness of the case, declaring an intention to present indisputable evidence demonstrating that the healthcare team failed to fulfill their obligations in what he characterized as “the horror theatre” surrounding Maradona’s last moments.
The investigation has treated the case as culpable homicide, analogous to involuntary manslaughter, due to the defendants' awareness of Maradona's critical health situation yet their failure to act appropriately. Among the accused is a night nurse who earlier attested to witnessing warning signs but claimed he had received directives to avoid waking Maradona.
Throughout the trial, which is projected to extend until July, over 100 witnesses are anticipated to provide testimony. Outside the courthouse, supporters rallied, carrying banners demanding “Justice for God,” reflecting the deep love and admiration that many harbor for Maradona.
Regarded as one of football's all-time greats, Maradona captained the Argentine team to victory in the 1986 World Cup, famously scoring the "Hand of God" goal in the quarter-finals. Despite his remarkable achievements, his later years were mired in struggles with addiction, culminating in a ban in 1991 after testing positive for cocaine. His death precipitated widespread mourning throughout Argentina and the global football community, with thousands paying their final respects at the presidential palace in Buenos Aires.
