A major twist has emerged in the case surrounding the death of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona as a court in Argentina has officially declared a mistrial. The decision came after one of the three presiding judges, Julieta Makintach, stepped down from the trial earlier this week.
The trial, which began on March 11, was investigating the alleged medical negligence by seven health professionals connected to Maradona’s death on November 25, 2020. The football icon died of cardiac arrest weeks after undergoing surgery to remove a hematoma from between his skull and brain.
Makintach’s resignation was sparked by a national uproar over her involvement in a soon-to-be-released documentary titled “Divine Justice.” The judge had allowed the documentary to be filmed during the proceedings, and a 90-second trailer featured footage of her walking through the courtroom. Following widespread criticism, Makintach said she had “no choice” but to withdraw from the case.
Due to her resignation, the panel of judges decided to invalidate the ongoing trial. A new trial will be scheduled, though no specific date has been provided. The court also confirmed that new judges will be selected through a lottery process.
By the time the trial was halted, numerous witnesses had already given testimony, and a verdict was anticipated by mid-year. Now, legal experts believe that the case may restart from the beginning and could extend into the end of the year.
Fernando Burlando, who represents Maradona’s daughters Dalma and Gianinna, expressed hope that a verdict can still be reached before the year ends. The family accuses the medical team of negligence and failing to provide proper care during Maradona’s post-surgery recovery at a private residence.
The accused medical professionals deny any wrongdoing and claim that Maradona himself resisted care and was difficult to manage during his recovery.
Diego Maradona remains a revered figure in Argentina, having led the national team to World Cup glory in 1986. His death sparked intense mourning across the nation, and the trial has remained a focal point of public interest.