Diego Maradona Trial: Expert Suggests Covid-19 Could Have Caused His Death
An official court expert introduced a surprising angle in the ongoing trial regarding Diego Maradona's death, proposing that the football legend might have died from Covid-19. Forensic doctor Pablo Ferrari highlighted to the court the significant mistake of not testing for coronavirus during Maradona's post-mortem examination.
Background of Maradona's Passing
Diego Maradona passed away on November 25, 2020, at age 60, after suffering cardiac arrest in his home in Tigre. This happened two weeks following a hospital discharge after successful surgery addressing a subdural hematoma on his brain. The trial in San Isidro has heard testimony from 76 witnesses so far, but Ferrari's suggestion that Covid-19 could be involved stunned those attending the proceedings.
Forensic Expert Questions Post-Mortem Procedure
Appearing as the last witness, Ferrari criticized the absence of coronavirus screening amid the pandemic and remarked, "We cannot rule out that he died of Covid." He explained how the respiratory virus might have rapidly worsened Maradona’s condition. Ferrari stated, "The coronavirus disease entered through the respiratory tract and could be fulminant in its virulence and kill the patient in a few hours." He also challenged previous claims that Maradona endured a prolonged 12-hour agony, suggesting instead that "His agony must have been a few minutes long."
Conflicting Medical Opinions Influence Trial Direction
Ferrari’s view supports the defense presented by lead doctor Leopoldo Luque. Luque argues that Maradona suffered a sudden lung fluid buildup causing acute respiratory distress, which led quickly to cardiac arrest. Ferrari stands as the only official court expert backing this perspective, providing important support for the defense team.
Alongside Luque, six other medical professionals face charges of simple homicide with eventual intent: psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, Nancy Forlini, Carlos Diaz, Mariano Perroni, Ricardo Almiron, and Pedro Di Spagna.
Trial Timeline and Next Steps
The trial is scheduled to resume on September 29, when the defendants will give expanded statements to the magistrates. Following this, closing arguments are planned to begin on October 6. The court is expected to finalize all proceedings and deliver a verdict before the month ends.
Upcoming Match
- Argentina vs Bolivia
- Date: 30 September 2026
- Time: 23:00
