Franco Baresi, AC Milan Icon and World Cup Winner, Passes Away at 66
Italian football legend and AC Milan stalwart Franco Baresi has died at the age of 66. The club confirmed his passing, noting that his influence remains woven into the fabric of the Rossoneri’s history.
AC Milan released a statement saying, “The history of AC Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi. His example and profound impact, like his number 6 shirt, will forever be an integral and fundamental part of the Club’s DNA and journey.”
Baresi had undergone surgery for a lung nodule in 2025 and had recently returned to public life, even serving as a torchbearer at the opening ceremony of the Milan‑Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Regarded as one of football’s greatest defenders, Baresi spent his entire professional career at AC Milan after joining the club’s youth setup in 1974. He made his Serie A debut in 1978 and captained the side for more than a decade, becoming the symbol of one of the club’s most successful eras.
During his 20‑year tenure with Milan, Baresi made 719 appearances, collecting six Serie A titles and three European Cups/UEFA Champions League trophies. His iconic No. 6 jersey was retired by the club after his departure in 1997.
On the international stage, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy and was a key member of the squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain. He later captained the Azzurri to the final of the 1994 World Cup in the United States, where Italy finished as runners‑up after losing to Brazil on a penalty shootout.
Although Baresi missed his penalty in that shootout, he remained one of Italy’s most admired footballers, praised for his leadership, composure, and unwavering loyalty. Born in Travagliato near Brescia, he was rejected by city rivals Inter Milan as a youth before finding his home at AC Milan.
Despite interest from other top European clubs throughout his career, Baresi never left Milan, becoming one of the few elite players to devote his entire playing career to a single club. After retiring, he continued to serve the Rossoneri in executive and ambassadorial roles, mentoring young talent and staying closely linked to the club.
About the Author
