Franco Baresi, Italian football legend and world champion, dies at 66

Franco Baresi, the legendary defender and captain of AC Milan and the Italian national team, has died at the age of 66. The Italian club confirmed the news through an official statement on its X account, accompanied by an image of the footballer lifting the Champions League trophy.

"The entire history of AC Milan is in mourning for the death of Franco Baresi. His example and his integrity will remain forever etched in the Club's DNA, just like his iconic number 6 jersey," the club posted. While Milan did not disclose the cause of death, Baresi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a pulmonary nodule.

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The entire history of AC Milan is in mourning for the death of Franco Baresi. His example and his integrity will remain forever etched in the Club's DNA, just like his iconic number 6 jersey.

Born in Lombardy in 1960, Baresi joined Milan's youth academy in 1974 and debuted with the first team in 1978 at 17 years old. He became a starter at 18 and captain at 22, known for his technique, anticipation, and leadership. He won 18 titles with Milan, including six Serie A championships and three Champions League titles. He also formed a formidable defensive line with Paolo Maldini, Mauro Tassotti, and Alessandro Costacurta.

With the Italian national team, Baresi was part of the squad that won the 1982 World Cup in Spain, defeating West Germany 3-1 in the final on July 11, 1982, at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid. He earned 81 caps for Italy and played in the 1994 World Cup final, which Italy lost to Brazil. AC Milan extended its condolences to Baresi's family, acknowledging that the loss is felt deeply by every club supporter.

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AC Milan sends its condolences to Franco Baresi's family in this difficult time, shared by every Rossonero, who feels this loss as their own.