The prosecution accused Maradona’s medical team of providing inadequate care in the period leading up to his death on 25 November 2020. Seven medical professionals are facing proceedings over allegations of negligent care, which they deny.
Maradona, who captained Argentina to victory at the 1986 FIFA World Cup, died aged 60 from heart failure and acute pulmonary oedema while recovering at a rented home in Tigre, near Buenos Aires, following surgery for a blood clot on his brain.
Prosecutors accuse medical team of serious failures
During Thursday’s proceedings, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari described the organisation of Maradona’s care as chaotic, arguing that the medical professionals failed to provide the attention required by a vulnerable patient.
The prosecution contends that those responsible for his treatment ignored warning signs as his condition deteriorated.
Assistant prosecutor Cosme Iribarren argued that Maradona’s death was not an unforeseeable event, pointing to symptoms that allegedly appeared well before his death.
The prosecution also questioned the decision to allow the former footballer to recover at home rather than in a hospital, highlighting the alleged absence of essential emergency equipment and an ambulance immediately available at the property.
Prison terms sought for defendants
Luque faces the highest requested sentence, with prosecutors seeking 12 years in prison.
Other proposed sentences range from four to 10 years for members of the medical team, including psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, psychologist Carlos Díaz, nursing staff and medical-care coordinators.
The defendants have maintained that Maradona’s death could not have been predicted and that they fulfilled their professional responsibilities. The court has yet to determine their criminal liability.
The charges concern dolo eventual, a legal concept under Argentine law involving awareness that conduct could cause a harmful outcome while proceeding regardless.
Retrial follows annulment of first proceedings
The current trial began in April 2026 after the original proceedings were annulled in May 2025.
The first trial had been under way for approximately two and a half months when it collapsed following revelations that one of the judges had participated in a clandestine documentary about the case. The controversy led to the proceedings being declared invalid.
The retrial is now moving through closing arguments, with the prosecution presenting its case before the defence makes its submissions.
Verdict still awaited
The closing arguments are expected to continue over the coming weeks, with the defence scheduled to present its arguments later in October. A verdict is expected after the court has considered the evidence and submissions.
The case has attracted considerable attention in Argentina and internationally because of Maradona’s immense legacy and the serious questions it raises about the care he received during his final days.
For now, the sentences requested by prosecutors remain recommendations to the court, not convictions or final punishments. The judges will ultimately decide whether the accused are guilty and what sentences, if any, should be imposed.