The Trial of Accountability: Healthcare Workers in the Dock for Maradona's Death

An Argentine court has begun the trial of seven healthcare professionals accused of negligence leading to Diego Maradona's death at 60. The case centers on inadequate medical care accusations. If found guilty, they could face up to 25 years in prison. The trial is expected to last four months.

The trial of seven healthcare professionals accused of negligence in the death of legendary soccer figure Diego Maradona began in an Argentine court on Tuesday. The accusations involve inadequate medical care provided to Maradona, who succumbed to cardiac arrest at his home near Buenos Aires on November 25, 2020.

The courtroom, filled with anticipation, saw Maradona's eldest daughters and other family members in emotional attendance. The charges, including manslaughter, could result in sentences of up to 25 years for the accused, who include a neurosurgeon, psychiatrist, and other medical staff.

Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari claims that Maradona's home hospitalization was reckless and uncontrolled, lacking the necessary medical oversight. The trial's spotlight focuses on neurosurgeon Leonardo Luque, Maradona's physician, alongside other healthcare workers who attended to the soccer great. The proceedings are expected to unfold over a four-month period with three sessions held weekly.

(With inputs from agencies.)