Maradona's Doctor Declares Innocence as New Trial Opens Over Football Legend's Death

The trial into the death of Argentine football icon Diego Maradona has commenced, with his personal physician, neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque, asserting his innocence. Luque, who considered Maradona his "idol" and "friend," expressed deep regret over the legend's passing at the age of 60, but vehemently denied any wrongdoing.

“

I want to say that I am innocent and that I deeply regret his death.

Luque is among seven medical professionals facing charges of gross negligence. Prosecutors have painted a grim picture, accusing the team of being "a bunch of amateurs" whose "omissions" contributed to Maradona's death. The prosecution's case centers on the argument that the medical team's actions, or lack thereof, endangered Maradona's life, particularly concerning his convalescence at home rather than in a medical facility.

“

I adored him, he was my idol and my friend.

However, the defense maintains that Maradona, who battled substance abuse, died of natural causes. Each defendant has sought to minimize their individual role in the care decisions made for the football superstar. The trial, taking place in the Buenos Aires suburb of San Isidro, follows the sensational annulment of a previous trial due to judicial irregularities. The outcome of this new trial carries immense weight in Argentina, where Maradona is revered as a national deity, and the circumstances surrounding his death remain a subject of intense public scrutiny and emotional debate.

“

I am completely sure that didn’t happen.