An Argentine court has declared a mistrial in the case against seven health professionals accused of negligence in the death of football legend Diego Maradona. This decision followed the withdrawal of one of the three judges, Julieta Makintach, amid controversy over her involvement in a documentary about the case.
Judge Makintach withdrew after criticism arose regarding her prominent role in `Divine Justice,` a documentary covering events from Maradona`s 2020 death to the trial`s start. Her participation reportedly led to a trial suspension while prosecutors investigated whether filming was allowed during proceedings.
The mistrial nullifies all court actions taken since March 11. A higher court will now randomly select three new judges, and a date for the rescheduled trial has not yet been set.
The prosecution alleges the seven medical team members provided inadequate care for the 1986 World Cup winner before he died of cardiac arrest in November 2020, shortly after brain surgery. The defendants, including his personal physician Leopoldo Luque, psychologist, psychiatrist, coordinator, and nurses, have pleaded not guilty, stating Maradona was a challenging patient who often refused treatment.
Maradona is celebrated as one of the greatest footballers ever. He played in four World Cups, famously leading Argentina to victory in 1986. His performance, particularly against England in the quarter-finals, cemented his legendary status worldwide. He was 60 years old when he passed away.
Adrian Whitmore