Doctors ignored ‘warning signs’ before Maradona’s death, court hears

Diego Maradona displayed "warning signs" that were disregarded during his hospitalization in Argentina prior to his passing in 2020, according to a witness testifying at the trial investigating the football legend's demise. Seven medical professionals have faced trial since mid-April in Argentina for potential negligence that might have played a role in his death.

The World Cup champion succumbed to heart failure and acute pulmonary edema, a condition characterized by fluid buildup in the lungs, two weeks following surgery. Forensic physician Carlos Cassinelli noted "warning signs," which included edema in his lower limbs, finger swelling, shortness of breath, indications of hypertension and an unusually rapid heart rate.

"No one investigated the cause of that swelling, even though it posed a life-threatening risk," Cassinelli told the court in San Isidro, north of Buenos Aires. Cassinelli is part of a medical board that examined various records and statements to assess Maradona's health status. "We believe these warning signs were ignored by the doctors because their attitude didn't change," he added, expressing the belief that home hospitalization was a mistake.

The witness further stated that Maradona's condition deteriorated progressively in the days after his release from the hospital. "A warning could have been issued," he asserted. The former Barcelona and Napoli star endured approximately 12 hours of agony before his death, Cassinelli reported. The defendants deny liability for his death, claiming that the larger-than-life Maradona, who battled cocaine and alcohol addictions for years, passed away due to natural causes. The trial might continue beyond August.