Franco Baresi, a legendary figure in Italian football and a one-club man for AC Milan, has died at the age of 66, his former club confirmed on Friday. Baresi was synonymous with AC Milan, playing every minute of his two-decade career for the Serie A club. The club issued a heartfelt statement expressing sorrow over the loss of one of football's most respected defenders.
"The entire history of AC Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi," the statement read. "His example and integrity will be forever etched into the Club's DNA, just as his iconic number 6 shirt is. The condolences AC Milan extends to Franco Baresi's family at such a difficult time are shared by every Rossonero, who feels this loss as their own."
Known for his defensive prowess and leadership, Baresi captained AC Milan for 14 years. During his tenure, he helped the team secure six Serie A titles and three European Cups, among numerous other accolades. In recognition of his contributions, he was named AC Milan's Player of the Century in 1999.
Baresi was also a key member of the Italian national team, winning the World Cup in 1982. He narrowly missed out on a second World Cup title in 1994, when Italy reached the final but lost to Brazil in a penalty shootout.
Just hours before the official announcement of his death, AC Milan had been compelled to deny misinformation circulating about Baresi's health. The defender had been admitted to a hospital in Milan, prompting premature tributes. Baresi had previously undergone surgery in August 2025 to remove a pulmonary nodule and later received cancer-prevention immunotherapy.
His most recent public appearance was earlier this year at the San Siro stadium, where he participated in the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony, carrying the Olympic flame alongside his friend and former Inter Milan rival, Beppe Bergomi.