Seven medical professionals who treated football legend Diego Maradona before his death in 2020 are now on trial for alleged medical negligence, which prosecutors claim led to his untimely demise.
The trial, which began on Tuesday in Buenos Aires, could see the accused—including Maradona’s brain surgeon, psychiatrist, and nurses—face up to 25 years in prison if found guilty of culpable homicide, a charge akin to involuntary manslaughter.
Maradona, who won the 1986 World Cup with Argentina, died of a heart attack at home just two weeks after being discharged from the hospital following brain surgery. His family has accused the medical team of neglect, a cover-up, and even derogatory remarks about his condition, referring to them as a “mafia.”
His eldest daughter, Dalma Maradona, has shared what she claims is evidence of serious irregularities in her father’s care, stating that her mother fears powerful individuals involved in the case.
Despite the allegations, all seven defendants deny any wrongdoing. The trial is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Maradona’s final days and whether his death could have been prevented.
