AC Milan and Italy legend Franco Baresi has died at the age of 66, bringing to an end the life of one of football’s greatest defenders.
The Rossoneri confirmed the passing of their iconic former captain on Thursday, paying tribute to a player whose legacy spans two decades of extraordinary service to the club.
“Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi. His example and integrity will be forever etched into the club’s DNA, just as his iconic number six shirt is,” the club said in a statement.
Baresi spent his entire professional career at AC Milan after making his debut in 1977, going on to make 719 appearances over 20 seasons before retiring in 1997.
Widely regarded as one of the finest defenders in football history, he captained Milan for 15 seasons and helped the club win six Serie A titles, three European Cups and UEFA Champions League trophies, four Supercoppa Italiana titles, two UEFA Super Cups and two Intercontinental Cups.
His partnership with Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta and Mauro Tassotti formed one of the most celebrated defensive units in European football.
On the international stage, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy and was part of the squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup. Twelve years later, he captained the Azzurri to the 1994 World Cup final, producing a remarkable performance against Brazil after recovering from a serious knee injury. Although Italy eventually lost on penalties, Baresi’s display remains one of the defining moments of his international career.
Following his retirement, Baresi remained closely connected to AC Milan. He was appointed honorary vice-president in 2020, while the club retired his famous number six shirt in recognition of his immense contribution.
Baresi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a lung nodule, and his final public appearance came at San Siro during the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in February.
Paying further tribute, AC Milan described Baresi as the embodiment of the club’s identity.
“Announcing the loss of someone who embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan is incredibly difficult. In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever.”
