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Maradona's Daughter Accuses Doctor in High-Profile Negligence Trial

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Gianinna Maradona, daughter of the late soccer legend Diego Maradona, confronted neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque during a negligence trial in Buenos Aires, accusing him of failing to properly care for her father before his 2020 death. Speaking in court, she denounced Luque and six other medical professionals for allegedly neglecting Maradona’s health during his final months. "I heard on television he denied being his doctor, and it infuriates me he won’t accept responsibility," Gianinna stated, emphasizing Luque’s role in overseeing Maradona’s treatment for a brain blood clot.

The trial, initially marred by a mistrial after Judge Julieta Makintach recused herself over conflicts of interest, now focuses on charges of culpable homicide against the defendants. Gianinna accused Luque, psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, and psychologist Carlos Díaz of mismanaging Maradona’s care while he was confined at home. She claimed his health deteriorated unchecked, with no interventions to address worsening conditions. Luque’s defense countered that Gianinna and her sister Dalma neglected their duty to ensure timely medical attention, shifting blame to the family’s inaction.

The case hinges on conflicting accounts of Maradona’s final days. Prosecutors argue the medical team ignored critical signs of decline, while the defense asserts the family’s delay in seeking emergency care contributed to his death. Maradona, 60, died of cardiac arrest in 2020 after brain surgery. If convicted, the defendants face up to 15 years in prison, though no verdicts have been reached.

The trial’s outcome could set precedents for medical malpractice cases involving high-profile patients. Gianinna’s emotional testimony underscores the public’s demand for accountability, while legal analysts question whether the family’s involvement complicates proceedings. The case remains a contentious saga, blending personal grief with professional scrutiny.

Primary keyword: Maradona negligence trial

Secondary keywords: Leopoldo Luque, culpable homicide, Gianinna Maradona, medical malpractice, Buenos Aires court