Italian football legend Franco Baresi, one of AC Milan’s greatest-ever captains and defenders, has died at the age of 66, the Serie A giants confirmed on Friday.
In a heartfelt statement, AC Milan paid tribute to the club icon, describing him as a symbol of the Rossoneri whose legacy will forever remain part of the club’s identity.
“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 6 shirt is,” the club said.
The club did not disclose the cause of death.
AC Milan Mourns Legendary Captain
Baresi served as AC Milan captain during one of the most successful eras in the club’s history, leading the Italian giants to:
- Three European Cups
- Six Serie A titles
- Multiple domestic and international trophies
He became AC Milan’s honorary vice-president in 2020 and made his final public appearance earlier this year during the opening ceremony of the Milan Winter Olympics at San Siro.
One of Football’s Greatest Defenders
Widely regarded as one of the greatest sweepers in football history, Baresi built an iconic defensive partnership alongside Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti and Alessandro Costacurta.
Renowned for his anticipation, composure, leadership and exceptional reading of the game, he spent almost his entire professional career with AC Milan.
After joining the club’s youth academy in 1974, Baresi made his first-team debut in 1978 and became captain at just 22 years old.
He retired in 1997 after making 719 appearances for the Rossoneri, a tally later surpassed only by Paolo Maldini.
World Cup Success With Italy
Baresi represented Italy 81 times and was part of the squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup.
He later captained the Azzurri to the 1994 FIFA World Cup final, where Italy lost to Brazil in a penalty shootout.
He also featured prominently during the 1990 FIFA World Cup, with another heartbreaking penalty shootout ending Italy’s hopes of lifting the trophy on home soil.
Health Battle Before His Death
Baresi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a lung nodule.
Speaking after the operation, he remained optimistic about his recovery.
“It will take me a little time to get all my strength back.”
AC Milan has not indicated whether his death was linked to the previous health condition.
A Lifelong Milan Icon
Following his retirement, Baresi remained closely connected to AC Milan, serving in various executive and ambassadorial roles.
His only spell away from the club came during a brief stint as technical director at Fulham, although he later admitted he quickly realised Milan was where he belonged.
Beyond football, Baresi was actively involved in charitable work through the Milan Foundation, supporting humanitarian projects in countries including Kenya, Morocco and Lebanon.
His death marks the end of an era for AC Milan and world football, with tributes expected from clubs, players and supporters across the globe.