In brief
Franco Baresi, the iconic AC Milan captain known for his defensive mastery and leadership, has died at the age of 66. His 20-year career with the club saw six Serie A championships and three European Cup triumphs. With 81 caps for Italy, he was part of the 1982 World Cup-winning squad and appeared in the 1994 final. Baresi became AC Milan’s honorary vice‑president in 2020, and the club retired his number six jersey four years later. He underwent surgery to remove a lung nodule in 2025 and made his last public appearance at the San Siro for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony.
AC Milan legend Franco Baresi has died at age 66.
Baresi spent a continuous 20 years with AC Milan from 1977 to 1997, winning six Serie A titles and three European Cups.
He is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders, captaining Milan for 15 seasons with 719 appearances and 33 goals.
Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy and was part of the squad that won the 1982 World Cup, also featuring in the 1994 final against Brazil.
In 2020 he became AC Milan’s honorary vice‑president, and the club retired his iconic number six four years later.
He had surgery in August 2025 to remove a lung nodule, and his last public appearance was at the San Siro for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony in February.
In a statement on X, AC Milan said: "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."
