Court Expert Suggests Covid-19 May Have Played Role in Diego Maradona's Death
An official court expert has raised a new possibility in the trial over Diego Maradona's death, indicating that the legendary footballer might have died from Covid-19. Forensic doctor Pablo Ferrari testified that the lack of coronavirus testing during Maradona's post-mortem was a significant oversight.
Maradona's Passing and Trial Background
The football icon passed away at his home in Tigre on November 25, 2020, at age 60, due to cardiac arrest while asleep. His death came just two weeks after surgery to treat a brain subdural haematoma. As the trial in San Isidro nears its end, having heard 76 witnesses so far, Ferrari’s statement added a surprising twist by suggesting Covid-19 could not be excluded as a cause.
Forensic Expert Questions Post-Mortem Methods
Ferrari, the last witness called, criticized the failure to test for coronavirus amidst the pandemic during the autopsy. Speaking before magistrates, he said, "We cannot rule out that he died of Covid." He described how the virus can enter through the respiratory system and rapidly worsen a patient's condition, potentially causing death within hours. Contrary to earlier expert claims that Maradona suffered for 12 hours, Ferrari argued his suffering lasted only a few minutes.
Impact on Defence Strategy
This perspective supports the defence led by doctor Leopoldo Luque, who argued Maradona’s death resulted from a sudden lung fluid buildup leading to acute respiratory distress and quick cardiac arrest. Ferrari is the sole official court expert endorsing this view, providing a significant point for the defence team.
Alongside Luque, six other medical professionals face charges of simple homicide with possible intent: psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, Nancy Forlini, Carlos Diaz, Mariano Perroni, Ricardo Almiron, and Pedro Di Spagna.
Trial Timeline and Next Steps
The proceedings will continue on September 29, when defendants can make extended statements to magistrates. Closing arguments are scheduled for October 6, with the court expected to finalize all matters and announce a verdict by the month's end.
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- Date: 30 September 2026
- Match: Argentina vs Bolivia
- Kickoff Time: 23:00
