The trial over the death of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona took a dramatic turn on Thursday as a psychologist testified that the late icon suffered from bipolar disorder and narcissistic traits, while also requiring strict abstinence from alcohol.
Carlos Diaz, one of seven medical professionals facing charges of manslaughter with reckless intent, told a court in Buenos Aires that Maradona’s psychological condition significantly influenced his treatment plan. Diaz, 34, is accused of prescribing inappropriate medication as part of the care provided to the former footballer in the weeks leading up to his death.
According to local media reports, Diaz said Maradona’s condition demanded a zero-alcohol approach, stressing that even minimal consumption could have severe consequences. He recounted his first meeting with the football legend on October 26, 2020—less than a month before his death—describing a scene where Maradona was drinking wine at home.
Diaz told the court he believed Maradona had expressed a willingness to improve his lifestyle and that his treatment strategy was built around sobriety. He also cited toxicology findings, which reportedly indicated that the football icon had not used drugs for 23 days prior to his death.
Maradona, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history, enjoyed a storied career with clubs such as Boca Juniors, Barcelona and Napoli, and famously led Argentina to victory at the 1986 FIFA World Cup. He died on November 25, 2020, at the age of 60, shortly after undergoing surgery for a subdural haematoma.
The ongoing trial is examining whether members of his medical and care team bear criminal responsibility for his death. Among those who also testified was neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque, who defended the decision to treat Maradona at home, stating that the arrangement was never intended to function as an intensive care unit.
As proceedings continue, the case remains a focal point of public attention in Argentina, raising broader questions about medical accountability and the care provided to high-profile patients.
Melissa Enoch
