Italian football is mourning the loss of Franco Baresi, one of the game’s greatest defenders, who has died at the age of 66. AC Milan confirmed the passing of the legendary captain, describing his legacy of leadership, integrity and loyalty as a permanent part of the club’s identity.
Baresi devoted his entire professional career to Milan, making his debut in 1977 and remaining with the Rossoneri until retiring in 1997. Over two decades, he made 719 appearances, scored 33 goals and captained the side for 15 seasons, helping the club secure six Serie A titles, three European Cups/UEFA Champions League trophies, four Italian Super Cups, two UEFA Super Cups and two Intercontinental Cups.
Widely regarded as one of football’s finest defenders, Baresi formed part of Milan’s legendary back line alongside Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta and Mauro Tassotti, a defensive unit that became one of the most celebrated in European football history.
On the international stage, Baresi earned 81 caps for Italy. He was a member of the squad that lifted the 1982 FIFA World Cup and later captained the Azzurri to the 1994 World Cup final in the United States.
That tournament produced one of the defining moments of his career. After recovering from a serious knee injury, Baresi returned in time for the final against Brazil and delivered a standout defensive performance, helping contain the dangerous attacking duo of Romario and Bebeto during a goalless draw. However, the match became the first World Cup final decided by a penalty shootout, and Baresi missed Italy’s opening spot-kick as Brazil went on to claim the trophy 3-2.
Following his retirement, Baresi remained closely connected to Milan. He was appointed honorary vice-president in 2020, and in 2024 the club permanently retired his iconic number six shirt in recognition of his extraordinary contribution.
Baresi underwent surgery in August 2025 to remove a lung nodule. His final public appearance came in February this year at Milan’s San Siro Stadium during the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.
In a statement, AC Milan said the club was grieving the loss of a figure whose influence would endure for generations, adding that his example and integrity would forever remain embedded in Milan’s DNA.
Former captain and long-time defensive partner Paolo Maldini led the tributes, saying he felt the same emptiness as whenever Baresi had been absent from the team during their playing days.
Maldini said Baresi had taught him to fight until the final whistle, demonstrated the true meaning of commitment to the club’s colours and embodied genuine leadership. He added that Baresi had protected him as a youngster, guided him through his development and remained the greatest footballer he had ever played alongside.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also honoured Baresi, describing him as not only one of the greatest figures in Italian sporting history but also a symbol of loyalty, professionalism and dedication.
Italian National Olympic Committee president Giovanni Malagò praised Baresi’s lifelong commitment to AC Milan, calling his decision to spend his entire career with one club a rare example of footballing loyalty that earned the admiration of supporters across Italy.