The trial of seven healthcare professionals accused of negligence in Diego Maradona’s death has begun in Argentina, with prosecutors alleging gross medical malpractice in the football legend’s final days. If convicted, the accused could face up to 25 years in prison.

According to Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari, Maradona was placed under reckless home hospitalization in Tigre, Buenos Aires, where he was allegedly left without proper medical care.

'After condemning him to oblivion in that house… they deliberately and cruelly decided that he should die,' Ferrari claimed, presenting a shocking image of Maradona’s swollen abdomen as evidence.

Who’s on trial?

The seven accused medical professionals include:

  • Leonardo Luque – Maradona’s neurosurgeon
  • Agustina Cosachov – Psychiatrist who prescribed his medication
  • Carlos Díaz – Psychologist
  • Nancy Forlini – Medical coordinator
  • Mariano Perroni – Nursing service representative
  • Dr. Pedro Di Spagna – Physician overseeing treatment
  • Ricardo Almirón – Nurse assigned to Maradona

Another nurse, Gisela Madrid, will be tried separately later this year.

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Veronica Ojeda, Jana Maradona, Dalma Maradona, and Giannina Maradona are seen during the trial for the death of late Argentine football legend Diego Maradona at the San Isidro court.

Emotional courtroom scenes

Maradona’s daughters Dalma, Giannina, and Jana, along with his former partner Verónica Ojeda, were present in court, demanding justice for their father. Ojeda shared a video of their son Diego Fernando, wearing a T-shirt with Maradona’s face and the word ‘justice’ before the trial began.

What’s next?

The trial is expected to last up to four months, with three hearings per week. The court will review medical reports, expert testimonies, and determine whether Maradona’s death was preventable.

With global attention on the case, the verdict could reshape medical accountability laws in Argentina and beyond.