BTN News: The trial against the medical team accused of negligence in the death of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona has been postponed until March 2025. The decision was made by the Third Criminal Oral Court (TOC) of San Isidro, Buenos Aires, following requests from the defense lawyers of three key accused: the neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque, psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, and psychologist Carlos Ángel Díaz. The court set the new date for March 11, 2025, delaying the much-anticipated proceedings by several months. The defendants are charged with possible homicide, a crime that carries a potential prison sentence of up to 25 years.
Court Postpones Trial Amid Controversy
Maradona’s medical team will face a trial to determine their responsibility in the events leading to the football star’s death on November 25, 2020. The proceedings will examine whether the actions of the medical professionals amounted to criminal negligence. The postponement follows the court’s acceptance of a request for additional time to prepare the defense, specifically from Luque, Cosachov, and Díaz.
Medical Negligence and the Last Days of Maradona
Maradona died of a heart attack in his home near Buenos Aires shortly after undergoing brain surgery. An autopsy revealed he suffered from an “acute pulmonary edema secondary to a chronic heart failure,” along with other severe conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy, myocardial ischemia, and cirrhosis. Toxicology reports found no traces of alcohol or illegal drugs but did identify medications such as venlafaxine, quetiapine, levetiracetam, and naltrexone — substances that can provoke heart rhythm disturbances in patients with chronic heart conditions.
A Question of Accountability: Could Maradona’s Death Have Been Prevented?
Investigators accuse Maradona’s medical team of placing him in a “situation of helplessness” and neglecting necessary medical care during his at-home recovery. The trial will assess whether their actions or inactions directly contributed to Maradona’s death. Key figures in the investigation include Leopoldo Luque, Maradona’s personal physician, and Agustina Cosachov, his psychiatrist, both of whom have been heavily scrutinized in the press and public opinion.
What We Know About the Trial and Charges
This case is not just about Maradona’s tragic death; it is a critical examination of medical responsibility and standards of care. If convicted, the defendants could face severe penalties, potentially up to 25 years in prison. Alongside Luque, Cosachov, and Díaz, other medical personnel involved in Maradona’s care during his final days will also be scrutinized for possible malpractice.
Argentina Grieves and Awaits Justice
Maradona’s death sent shockwaves through Argentina and the global football community. The case has remained a focal point in the nation’s media, with public sentiment running high over the alleged medical negligence. As the new trial date looms, the world will be watching to see if justice is served for one of football’s most iconic figures.
Upcoming Legal Proceedings and Key Dates
- New Trial Date: March 11, 2025
- Court: Third Criminal Oral Court (TOC) of San Isidro, Buenos Aires
- Key Accused: Leopoldo Luque, Agustina Cosachov, Carlos Ángel Díaz
Conclusion: A Long Road to Justice
The delay in the trial offers the accused more time to prepare their defense, but it also prolongs the wait for justice for Maradona’s family and fans. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for medical professionals and the legal landscape in Argentina regarding patient care standards and accountability.
