Football World Mourns the Passing of AC Milan and Italy Legend Franco Baresi

Key Takeaways:

• Franco Baresi passed away last night at the age of 66, prompting tributes from AC Milan and the Italian football community
• The legendary defender dedicated his entire playing career to Milan, amassing 719 appearances, six Serie A titles and three Champions League trophies
• Baresi had recently served as Milan’s honorary vice-president and had surgery last year to remove a pulmonary nodule

Legacy of an Unparalleled Defender

AC Milan and Italian football are paying respects to Franco Baresi, who died last night aged 66. Baresi, widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history, represented both Milan and the Italian national team with distinction for nearly two decades.

Baresi’s influence at Milan cannot be overstated – his remarkable career included 719 matches across 19 seasons, making him a stalwart presence for the Rossoneri. His achievements with the club include six Serie A titles and three Champions League triumphs, achievements that have firmly secured his legacy in European and world football.

Ciao Franco 💙6⃣

Malagò: "A legend of the Italian game, he entered the hearts of millions in this country." 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/NeqzEt97WE

— Italy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri_En) July 31, 2026

Milan’s Tribute and Recent Health Battle

In the wake of his passing, AC Milan issued an emotional statement: “The entire history of AC Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi,” the club wrote. “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.”

Baresi had undergone surgery a year ago to remove a pulmonary nodule and subsequently began immunotherapy treatment. On Wednesday evening, the club had addressed rumours regarding his health, confirming that although Baresi was facing “a difficult and delicate time,” reports of his death were inaccurate at the time.

International Achievements and After-Playing Career

On the international stage, Baresi reached the pinnacle with Italy by winning the 1982 World Cup, although he did not feature in the matches that year. He later captained the national team in 1994, leading the Azzurri to the World Cup final under the management of Arrigo Sacchi, with whom he had also worked at Milan.

After retiring in 1997, AC Milan honoured their legendary captain by retiring his number 6 shirt. Since October 2020, Baresi held the role of honorary vice-president at the club, further continuing his lifelong association with Milan.