Franco Baresi, Italian Soccer Legend, Dies at 66

Milan, Italy – Franco Baresi, the legendary former captain of AC Milan and renowned Italian defender, has passed away at the age of 66. AC Milan, the soccer club where Baresi spent his entire two-decade playing career, announced his death on Friday. However, the cause of death was not disclosed.

Baresi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a pulmonary nodule. Following the surgery, he began a course of immunotherapy. His last public appearance was at the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics in February. There, he carried the torch into San Siro alongside former Inter Milan defender Giuseppe Bergomi, highlighting his career at the stadium.

“His example and integrity will be forever etched into the Club’s DNA, just as his iconic number 6 shirt is,” AC Milan noted in their tribute.

AC Milan extended condolences to Baresi’s family, noting that his loss is felt deeply by every fan of the club.

Baresi had a distinguished soccer career, which included being part of Italy’s 1982 World Cup-winning team. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni remarked that Italy has lost a champion and an exemplification of loyalty and professionalism.

Career Highlights and Achievements

Widely regarded as one of the finest defenders, Baresi was a true one-club player. He rose through Milan’s ranks, debuting for the first team at 17 in April 1978. His unwavering loyalty was evident when he remained with the club after its relegation to Serie B in 1982. Soon after, he helped Italy secure the World Cup and became Milan’s captain at mere 22.

Baresi made over 700 appearances for Milan, leading the team to dominance in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He won several titles with the club, including three Champions League trophies, six Serie A titles, and various other national and international cups.

“For generations, Franco embodied the values, character, and excellence that define this club,” remarked Milan owner Gerry Cardinale, praising Baresi’s enduring legacy.

In an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport last year, Baresi fondly remembered his early days as a Milan fan and his arrival at Milanello, the club’s training center.

Remarkably, AC Milan retired Baresi’s No. 6 jersey upon his retirement in 1997, a first in Italian soccer. A match honoring his career was held, featuring prominent soccer figures he played with and against.

Baresi was named honorary president of Milan in 2020. Italian soccer federation president Giovanni Malagò paid tribute to Baresi, highlighting his exceptional career.

Baresi’s Early Days and Familial Soccer Legacy

Baresi’s career might have taken a different path, as he had trials at Inter Milan but was rejected, with the club opting to sign his older brother Giuseppe Baresi. Franco then joined Milan’s youth team, eventually captaining the first team.

Giuseppe also captained Inter Milan, making the image of the Baresi brothers exchanging pennants before matches legendary.

Recalling his debut against Baresi, former Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon expressed admiration for the Milan legend and his impact on Italian soccer.

The soccer world mourns the passing of Franco Baresi, whose legacy remains influential and cherished.