Court Expert Suggests Diego Maradona May Have Died from Covid-19 During Trial

During the ongoing trial about Diego Maradona's death, a court-appointed forensic doctor introduced a surprising possibility that the football legend might have succumbed to Covid-19. The expert emphasized that skipping coronavirus tests during the post-mortem was a serious mistake.

Sudden Development in Argentine Court

The beloved footballer passed away on November 25, 2020, at his home in Tigre, aged 60, due to cardiac arrest. This occurred just two weeks after he left the hospital following surgery to treat a subdural hematoma in his brain. As the trial nears its conclusion in San Isidro—where 76 witnesses have already testified—the official expert, Pablo Ferrari, surprised the courtroom by suggesting Maradona's death could be linked to Covid-19.

Forensic Specialist Questions Post-Mortem Procedures

Pablo Ferrari, appearing as the final witness, criticized the absence of coronavirus screening during the autopsy amid the global pandemic. According to reports by MARCA, he told the court: "We cannot rule out that he died of Covid." Ferrari detailed how the virus attacks the respiratory system and can fatally overwhelm a patient within hours. He challenged earlier claims that Maradona suffered for 12 hours before dying, stating instead: "His agony must have been a few minutes long."

Conflicting Medical Opinions Shape Defence Strategy

Ferrari's testimony supports the defence led by Maradona’s main doctor, Leopoldo Luque, who argued that Maradona experienced sudden lung fluid buildup causing acute respiratory distress, which quickly led to cardiac arrest. Ferrari stands as the sole official court expert backing this view, balancing the arguments presented.

Along with Luque, six other medical professionals face charges of simple homicide with potential intent. They include psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, Nancy Forlini, Carlos Diaz, Mariano Perroni, Ricardo Almiron, and Pedro Di Spagna.

Trial Nears Closing Stages

The court will reconvene on September 29, giving the defendants a chance to address the judges directly. Formal closing arguments start October 6, with the expectation that a verdict will be reached before the month ends.

• Date of Death: November 25, 2020
• Age: 60
• Cause Previously Accepted: Cardiac arrest after brain surgery recovery
• New Theory Presented: Possible death from Covid-19
• Number of Witnesses Heard: 76
• Next Court Dates: September 29 (statements), October 6 (closing arguments)