Court Expert Suggests Diego Maradona Might Have Died from Covid-19 During Trial
During the ongoing trial surrounding the death of football legend Diego Maradona, an official court expert raised a surprising possibility: the Argentine icon may have died due to Covid-19. Forensic doctor Pablo Ferrari testified that the failure to conduct coronavirus tests during the post-mortem was a significant mistake.
Details from the Trial
Maradona died in his sleep from cardiac arrest at his home in Tigre on November 25, 2020, aged 60. His death came just two weeks after a hospital stay and successful brain surgery to treat a subdural haematoma. The trial in San Isidro has already included 76 witnesses, but Ferrari's statement introduced a new angle by suggesting the cause of death could be linked to the coronavirus.
Forensic Expert Questions Post-Mortem Methods
Appearing as the final witness, Ferrari criticized the absence of coronavirus screening amid the pandemic. He told magistrates, "We cannot rule out that he died of Covid." Explaining the rapid impact of the virus, Ferrari added, "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 earlier claims that Maradona suffered a fatal 12-hour ordeal, saying instead, "His agony must have been a few minutes long."
Impact on Medical Defense
Ferrari’s testimony supports the defense presented by lead doctor Leopoldo Luque, who argued that Maradona experienced a quick build-up of lung fluid causing acute respiratory distress that led to sudden cardiac arrest. Ferrari stands as the only official court expert backing this perspective, giving weight to the defense’s case.
Besides Luque, six other medical professionals face charges of simple homicide with eventual intent: psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, doctors Nancy Forlini, Carlos Diaz, Mariano Perroni, Ricardo Almiron, and Pedro Di Spagna.
Next Steps in the Trial
The court will resume hearings on September 29, allowing the accused to give extended statements directly to the judges. Closing arguments are scheduled for October 6, with the final verdict expected before the end of the month.
Upcoming Match
- Argentina vs Bolivia
- Date: 30 September 2026
- Time: 23:00
