Seven Doctors, One Legend, No Verdict Yet: What Maradona's Retrial Could Finally Reveal

Nearly five years after Diego Maradona's death stunned the footballing world, Argentina's legal system is getting a second chance at a verdict.

The original trial collapsed under a judicial scandal. Now, with a new bench and global eyes fixed on San Isidro, the Maradona death trial is back with one clear mandate: finish, and is expected to last until July 2026.

Why Did the First Trial Collapse?

The original case was annulled after Judge Julieta Makintach was disqualified for allegedly authorising individuals close to her to record hearings for a documentary titled "Divine Justice," according to CNN.

The fallout triggered impeachment proceedings and her removal from office.

Defense lawyers have since argued their clients should not bear the cost of a judge's misconduct.

Who Is Standing Trial?

Seven medical professionals, including neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque, psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, and psychologist Carlos Díaz, face manslaughter charges tied to their care of the soccer icon in his final days.

All seven have pleaded not guilty. Convictions carry sentences of eight to 25 years, according to CNN.

What Is the Defense Arguing?

There was no criminal intent, say defense attorneys.

"It is clear that there was no intentional criminal plan to kill Maradona," Cosachov's lawyer Vadim Mischanchuk reportedly said.

The defense also contends Maradona was already managing several serious medical conditions before his death.

What Does the Family Want?

Family lawyer Mario Baudry has been unambiguous, reportedly calling for judges to be "severe" with Luque, Cosachov, and Díaz.

He also acknowledged the emotional toll on Maradona's 13-year-old son and former partner Verónica Ojeda, calling the retrial deeply painful for the family.

How Long Will This Take?

Baudry expects a verdict within two months, potentially before judicial recess at mid-year.

The witness list has been cut to roughly 100, focused tightly on the 14-day window between Diego Maradona's surgery and his death on November 25, 2020.

What Happens If This Trial Fails Again?

That question shadows every hearing.

A second collapse would deal a severe blow to Argentina's judicial credibility in a case the world is watching.

Mischanchuk was emphatic: "This trial must begin and it must end."

Should the verdict be contested, all parties retain the right to appeal, potentially extending proceedings well beyond mid-year.

(With inputs from yMedia)