Italy’s Football Legend Franco Baresi Passes Away at 66
Franco Baresi, the highly decorated Italian defender who captained AC Milan for over two decades, has passed away at the age of 66. His death was announced by his club on Friday.
Baresi began his playing career with AC Milan in 1978 and went on to make more than 700 appearances for the Rossoneri, winning numerous titles including three Champions League trophies, six Serie A titles, two Intercontinental Cups, three European Supercups, and four Italian Supercups. He was also a key player in Italy’s World Cup-winning team of 1982.
Baresi underwent surgery to remove a pulmonary nodule in August 2025 before beginning a course of immunotherapy. His last public appearance was at the opening ceremony for the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics in February, where he carried the torch into the San Siro stadium alongside former Inter Milan defender Giuseppe Bergomi.
The entire history of AC Milan is in tears over Baresi’s passing. “His example and integrity will be forever etched into the Club’s DNA,” said Milan owner Gerry Cardinale. The club also held a celebration match in his honour, featuring many football stars he had played with and against.
Baresi was widely regarded as one of the best defenders of all time, known for his loyalty, professionalism, and dedication to AC Milan. He chose to stay with the club even after it was relegated to Serie B – for the second time in three seasons – in 1982, helping Italy win the World Cup that summer.
Baresi’s legacy extends far beyond his playing career. He is remembered as a true one-club player who etched himself into AC Milan history alongside teammate Marco van Basten. The club also retired Baresi’s No 6 jersey, which was a first for Italian football, and held a celebration match in his honour.
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni described Baresi as “an extraordinary champion who wore only two shirts for his entire career: those of Milan and Italy.” He will be remembered by every Rossonero at such a difficult time. One-club player Baresi etched into AC Milan history, he was given the captaincy at just 22 years old.
Baresi’s impact on Italian football extends beyond his playing career. He helped shape the club’s values and character, embodying the spirit of excellence that defines AC Milan. His legacy will endure forever, as reflected in the condolences extended by every Rossonero to Franco Baresi’s family at such a difficult time.
Source: Al Jazeera
Based on reporting from Al Jazeera.
