Court Expert Raises Possibility Diego Maradona Died from Covid-19 in Trial
An official court expert introduced a surprising idea during the ongoing trial about Diego Maradona's death, suggesting the football legend might have died from Covid-19. Forensic doctor Pablo Ferrari told judges that not testing for coronavirus after Maradona’s passing was a significant oversight.
Maradona's Passing and Court Proceedings
The Argentine football icon died in his sleep from cardiac arrest at his home in Tigre on November 25, 2020, aged 60. This occurred just two weeks after he left the hospital where he had brain surgery to treat a subdural haematoma. Now, as the trial in San Isidro nears its end after hearing testimony from 76 witnesses, Ferrari stunned everyone by hinting Covid-19 could have been the cause of death.
Forensic Expert Questions Post-Mortem Process
Ferrari, the last witness called, criticized the absence of a coronavirus test during the post-mortem at a time when the pandemic was ongoing. According to reports by Spanish media outlet MARCA, he told the court: "We cannot rule out that he died of Covid."
He explained how the respiratory virus can rapidly devastate a patient’s health, saying: "The coronavirus disease entered through the respiratory tract and could be fulminant in its virulence and kill the patient in a few hours."
Contradicting earlier expert claims that Maradona suffered a 12-hour death struggle, Ferrari insisted: "His agony must have been a few minutes long."
Medical Defence Gains New Support
Ferrari's views back up the defence led by Maradona’s main doctor, Leopoldo Luque. Luque argues that Maradona died suddenly due to fluid building up in his lungs, causing acute respiratory distress and cardiac arrest within minutes. Ferrari is the only official court expert supporting this angle, making his testimony key for the defence team.
Others Charged in the Case
- Leopoldo Luque – lead physician
- Agustina Cosachov – psychiatrist
- Nancy Forlini – medical professional
- Carlos Diaz – medical professional
- Mariano Perroni – medical professional
- Ricardo Almiron – medical professional
- Pedro Di Spagna – medical professional
All face charges of simple homicide with eventual intent.
Trial's Closing Stages Approaching
The next hearing is scheduled for September 29, when defendants will provide more detailed statements. Formal closing arguments will start on October 6, with the court expected to reach a verdict before the month ends.
Upcoming Friendly Match
- Argentina vs Bolivia
- Date: September 30, 2026
- Time: 23:00
