Court Expert Suggests Diego Maradona May Have Died from Covid-19 in Trial Twist

Unexpected Theory Emerges in Diego Maradona Death Trial

An official court expert has introduced a surprising theory in the trial examining the death of football legend Diego Maradona, suggesting that Covid-19 could not be dismissed as a cause of death. Forensic doctor Pablo Ferrari testified that skipping coronavirus testing during the post-mortem was a serious oversight.

Maradona's Passing and Trial Background

The Argentine icon died in his sleep from cardiac arrest at his home in Tigre on November 25, 2020, aged 60. His death came two weeks after hospital discharge following brain surgery for a subdural hematoma. The San Isidro trial has heard testimony from 76 witnesses so far. Ferrari stunned the courtroom by proposing that Maradona may have succumbed to Covid-19.

Forensic Expert Challenges Post-Mortem Procedures

Speaking as the final witness, Ferrari criticized the lack of coronavirus screening during the post-mortem amid the pandemic. He told the court: "We cannot rule out that he died of Covid." Ferrari explained how the virus attacks through the respiratory tract and can rapidly deteriorate a patient's condition, sometimes leading to death within hours.

He challenged earlier expert statements claiming Maradona suffered a 12-hour painful decline, insisting instead: "His agony must have lasted only a few minutes."

Medical Testimonies and Defence Arguments

Ferrari's views back the defence led by physician Leopoldo Luque, who argues that Maradona experienced sudden lung fluid buildup causing acute respiratory distress and rapid cardiac arrest. Ferrari remains the sole official court expert supporting this perspective, offering key support for the defence.

Besides Luque, six other medical professionals face charges related to simple homicide with possible intent. They include psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, Nancy Forlini, Carlos Diaz, Mariano Perroni, Ricardo Almiron, and Pedro Di Spagna.

Trial Timeline and Next Steps

The hearing will resume on September 29, allowing defendants to provide detailed statements to the magistrates. Closing arguments are set for October 6. The court is expected to finalize the verdict before the month ends.

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