A trial in Argentina is nearing its climax as defence lawyers argue that neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque—charged over Diego Maradona’s 2020 death—is innocent and was made a “scapegoat,” while prosecutors seek prison sentences for multiple accused healthcare professionals. Lawyers say Maradona’s death was not foreseeable and that there was no ability to predict the fatal outcome.
Maradona died in November 2020 at age 60 from a cardiorespiratory crisis with pulmonary edema after surgery for a subdural hematoma. He was found dead in his bed at a Tigre residence used during convalescence. All three sources say seven healthcare professionals are on trial, focusing on alleged negligence during a two-week recovery period. Prosecutors request sentences ranging from four to 12 years for six of the seven defendants.
Across coverage, the emphasis differs mainly in framing: some outlets foreground the defence’s central claim of scapegoating and innocence, while others highlight the prosecution’s warnings about alleged inaction and the specific timing and circumstances of Maradona’s death. Despite this, the core case details and the sentencing range sought remain consistent.
