In a dramatic turn of events, the homicide trial involving the late football legend Diego Maradona has been declared invalid, according to Argentine media reports. The trial, which aimed to hold seven members of Maradona’s medical team accountable for his untimely death, has now hit a legal dead-end following a serious breach of judicial conduct.
Maradona, who captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 1986 and is widely regarded as one of football’s greatest icons, passed away in 2020 at the age of 60. His death shocked not only Argentina but the entire world of sports. What followed was a deeply emotional and controversial legal battle that began on March 11, 2025, aimed at uncovering whether negligence in his medical care played a role in his passing.
The trial took a dramatic twist this week when Judge Julieta Makintach, one of the three presiding judges, resigned on Tuesday. Her decision came after a video emerged showing her participating in what appeared to be a documentary interview — filmed inside the Buenos Aires courthouse and even within her office. Such conduct violates strict judicial ethics and courtroom impartiality rules in Argentina.
This unexpected development led to Thursday’s announcement that the trial had been rendered invalid. Legal experts suggest that the trial cannot continue with one of its key judges compromised, and the process may now need to restart entirely or face permanent dismissal — a potential blow to those seeking justice.
The medical professionals charged in the case have consistently denied any wrongdoing. They were accused of “simple homicide with eventual intent,” a legal term in Argentina implying that while they didn’t set out to kill Maradona, they were aware their neglect could lead to fatal consequences and proceeded regardless. If convicted, they could have faced prison sentences ranging from 8 to 25 years.
The trial had attracted significant public interest, with fans and family members — including Maradona’s daughters Gianinna and Dalma — closely following the proceedings. Their emotional appearances at court symbolized the nation’s collective grief and demand for answers.
It remains unclear what the next steps in the legal process will be. Will a new trial be scheduled? Can the evidence be reused, or has the entire case been compromised beyond repair? For now, Argentina — and the world — must wait to see how the justice system handles the fallout of this courtroom scandal.
