Likbilder Shake Trial Over Maradona’s Death – Sydsvenskan Covers Google News Story

Shocking images of Diego Maradona’s body have been presented in court during the ongoing negligence trial of seven medical professionals accused of contributing to his death in 2020. The footage, shown during proceedings in San Isidro near Buenos Aires, depicts the football legend lying in bed with severe swelling in his face, limbs and abdomen, described by witnesses as resembling a balloon.

The trial resumed after a previous attempt ended in a mistrial in March 2025 when one of the judges stepped down amid criticism over her involvement in a documentary related to the case. Seven healthcare workers, including Maradona’s personal doctor Leopoldo Luque, psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, and psychologist Carlos Diaz, now face potential prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years if convicted of homicide with possible intent.

Emergency room doctor Juan Carlos Pinto testified about arriving at Maradona’s home following his death, stating he observed significant edema, a swollen face, limb swelling, and a globular abdomen. He attributed the abdominal distension to a combination of fat and ascites — fluid buildup often associated with liver cirrhosis. The court was shown a 17-minute forensic video capturing Maradona on his deathbed wearing football shorts and a black t-shirt pulled up to expose his distended stomach.

Maradona’s daughter Gianinna was present in court during the testimony and became visibly emotional, burying her face in her hands as the video played. Prosecutors allege the medical team acted with reckless disregard for Maradona’s health during his home recovery following brain surgery for a subdural hematoma two weeks prior to his death. The defense maintains that his passing resulted from natural causes related to pre-existing medical conditions.

Maradona, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players in history, died in November 2020 at the age of 60. Official reports cite heart failure and acute pulmonary edema as the immediate causes of death. The current trial follows a 2021 investigation by a 20-member panel that concluded the medical team provided inappropriate, deficient, and reckless care. If found guilty, the accused could face lengthy prison terms under charges of homicide with possible intent, meaning they pursued a course of action despite knowing it could lead to death.