Tue May 27 23:35:47 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Maradona Death Trial in Turmoil as Judge Resigns Over Documentary Involvement**

BUENOS AIRES – The negligence trial surrounding the death of Argentinian football legend Diego Maradona has been thrown into uncertainty after one of the three presiding judges, Julieta Makintach, resigned amid accusations of participating in a documentary about the star’s death.

Judge Makintach’s recusal follows reports that she was involved in a documentary examining Maradona’s death and its aftermath. This revelation prompted a request for her removal from the bench by Leopoldo Luque, Maradona’s neurosurgeon and a key defendant in the case. Luque’s lawyer argued that the documentary production company had ties to Judge Makintach’s brother, Juan Makintach. Furthermore, concerns were raised about a camera in the courtroom, allegedly approved by the judge.

Prosecutors presented footage from the documentary, seemingly featuring Judge Makintach prominently, leading to concerns that her involvement compromised the integrity of the judiciary. While Judge Makintach has denied wrongdoing, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari argued that “The situation compromises the prestige of the judiciary.”

The trial, which began in March, is examining the actions of seven healthcare workers, including a neurosurgeon, psychiatrist, and nurses, who attended to Maradona in his final days. They are charged with negligent homicide, facing up to 25 years in prison if convicted, following Maradona’s death from cardiac arrest in 2020 at the age of 60. An eighth person is expected to face court separately. The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked intense public scrutiny, given Maradona’s status as a national hero, celebrated for leading Argentina to victory in the 1986 World Cup.

Fernando Burlando, a lawyer for Maradona’s daughters, Dalma and Gianinna, described the situation as a “judicial tragedy.” It remains unclear how the resignation will impact the proceedings or when a replacement judge will be appointed. With over 190 witnesses expected to testify, the trial’s future remains uncertain. The trial was already gripping Argentina with testimony from coroners suggesting Maradona’s death was “foreseeable” and occurred in “agony”.

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