Maradona Death Trial Annulled, New Proceedings to Be Held from Scratch

The Criminal Oral Court No. 3 of San Isidro has officially annulled the trial investigating Diego Maradona’s death. Judges Maximiliano Savarino and Verónica Di Tommaso delivered the decision following the disqualification of Judge Julieta Makintach, whose involvement in a documentary about the case compromised her impartiality.

As a result of the annulment, a new panel will be selected and the 21 hearings held since March 11 will need to be repeated. The accused include neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque, psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, psychologist Carlos Díaz, and four other medical professionals who were part of Maradona’s care team.

Savarino stated that Makintach’s conduct harmed both prosecution and defense. Di Tommaso added, “Justice must not be tainted,” a remark that drew criticism from Luque. Maradona’s daughters—Dalma, Gianinna, and Jana—were present in the courtroom and broke into tears upon hearing the decision.

The Buenos Aires Supreme Court suspended Makintach for 90 days and instructed the Attorney General to evaluate potential disciplinary action under Law 13.661. Officials cited her “unprecedented involvement” in a documentary as grounds for urgent intervention.

A new court will be drawn from the remaining six in San Isidro, though the process may be delayed due to internal procedures. All parties have expressed a desire to expedite the case. Prosecutors acknowledged the setback, noting that the defense had already seen part of their legal strategy.