Former Italy and AC Milan legend Franco Baresi has passed away at the age of 66.
AC Milan confirmed the death of the club icon, who died today at the Humanitas Clinic in Rozzano, near Milan, Italy. Baresi had been battling a serious lung illness after undergoing surgery in August 2025 to remove a pulmonary (lung) nodule, followed by immunotherapy. Several Italian reports indicate he died after a prolonged battle with complications related to the condition.
In a heartfelt tribute, AC Milan said:
“Announcing the loss of someone who embodied the heart and soul of AC Milan is incredibly difficult. But everyone at the Club and all the Milanisti must live up to Franco Baresi’s memory. We must be strong and gather every bit of energy, even at this saddest of times. We lost Franco only a few months after his last public appearance in a packed San Siro, at the Milan Winter Olympics opening ceremony, an event on the world stage he helped make unforgettable.
“In memory of Franco, we stand united, knowing he’ll guide and push us throughout our Rossoneri journey. Forever. Because Baresi is forever.
“The entire history of AC 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. The condolences AC Milan extends to Franco Baresi’s family at such a difficult time are shared by every Rossonero, who feels this loss as their own.”
Baresi is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football history. During his illustrious career, he won six Serie A titles and three European Cups/UEFA Champions League titles with AC Milan. He was also part of Italy’s 1982 FIFA World Cup-winning squad, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats.
