Legendary Franco Baresi passes away at the age of 66

The world of football is filled with sorrow as Franco Baresi, the iconic figure for AC Milan and the Italian national team, has died at 66.

Franco Baresi, AC Milan and Italy legend, passes away

The news was confirmed by AC Milan in an official statement. The red-and-black striped club expressed: "The history of AC Milan is in tears at the passing of Franco Baresi. His example and legacy, along with the number 6 shirt, will forever remain an inseparable part of the club's DNA and journey."

Baresi's death ends the long battle against illness of one of the greatest defenders in football history. In 2025, he underwent surgery for a lung nodule. After that, Baresi still appeared at San Siro and was even one of the torchbearers at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.

Franco Baresi was born on May 8, 1960. Orphaned at age 14, he joined the AC Milan academy in 1974 after being rejected by Inter Milan—the club he supported as a child—due to his small physique. However, AC Milan's decision opened the door to one of the greatest stories in Serie A history.

Making his first-team debut under coach Nils Liedholm in 1978, Baresi quickly became the defensive leader. At just 22, he was handed the AC Milan captain's armband and spent his entire top-level career with the San Siro club.

In the Rossoneri colors, Baresi made 719 appearances, winning 6 Serie A titles and 3 European Cups/UEFA Champions League trophies, becoming a symbol of rare loyalty in modern football. Upon his retirement in 1997, AC Milan decided to permanently retire the number 6 jersey to honor their legendary captain.

At the international level, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy, was a member of the 1982 World Cup-winning team, and later captained the Azzurri at the 1994 World Cup. The image of him breaking down in tears after missing a penalty in the final against Brazil remains one of the most emotional moments in Italian football history.

After retiring, Baresi continued his association with AC Milan in various roles, from overseeing the youth academy to serving as club ambassador. With his talent, loyalty, and exemplary character, Franco Baresi has always been regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time. His passing leaves a huge void not only in AC Milan and Italian football, but across the entire football world.