Franco Baresi, the beloved former AC Milan captain renowned for his exceptional defensive skills, has passed away at the age of 66. His club, where he spent 20 years of his career, announced his death, although the cause was not specified. Baresi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a pulmonary nodule and was subsequently treated with immunotherapy.

His final public appearance was during the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony in February, where he carried the torch into San Siro alongside Giuseppe Bergomi. AC Milan expressed their condolences, highlighting Baresi’s impact on the club’s history and the significance of his iconic number 6 shirt. His contribution to the club continues to resonate deeply with Milan’s fans, known as ‘Rossoneri.’

“The entire history of AC Milan is in tears,” the club stated.

Baresi was part of Italy’s triumphant 1982 World Cup team. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni praised the late defender as a beacon of loyalty, professionalism, and dedication. Throughout his career, Baresi remained a one-club player, joining Milan’s first team at 17 and becoming captain at 22 despite the club’s relegation challenges.

Baresi’s career includes more than 700 appearances and celebrated achievements such as three Champions League trophies, six Serie A titles, along with numerous other awards. Gerry Cardinale, Milan’s owner, commended Baresi for his resilience even in the face of personal challenges, embodying the club’s values consistently.

“Franco’s legacy is profound and will endure forever,” Cardinale said.

In his last interview, Baresi reminisced about his early days as a Milan fan, expressing awe at his first visit to Milanello, the club’s training center. Milan honored Baresi by retiring his No. 6 jersey in 1997—a first in Italian soccer—and hosting a match involving many legendary players.

Baresi was also runner-up in the 1989 Ballon d’Or and played in Italy’s runner-up team in the 1994 World Cup, famously missing a penalty. He was appointed honorary president of Milan in 2020. Giovanni Malagò, president of the Italian soccer federation, acknowledged the loss of one of soccer’s legends.

Interestingly, Baresi’s career path might have differed, as he had trials with Inter Milan which were unsuccessful, leading to his enrollment with Milan’s youth team. This set the stage for his legendary rivalry in the Milan derby, where his brother Giuseppe Baresi captained Inter Milan.

Former Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon remembered his Serie A debut against Baresi, noting the profound impact of playing against such esteemed champions.

“Ciao Franco. Rest in peace,” Buffon added.

Franco Baresi’s influence and integrity have left an indelible mark on soccer history.