Legendary Italian defender and former AC Milan captain Franco Baresi has passed away at the age of 66, the Serie A club confirmed on Friday.
Baresi, who spent his entire professional career with AC Milan, died almost a year after undergoing surgery to remove a pulmonary nodule in August 2025.
The club expressed sadness over the death of the football icon, describing him as a figure whose legacy and values would remain permanently linked to AC Milan’s history.
“The entire history of AC Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi. His example and integrity will forever be part of the club’s DNA, just like his legendary number six shirt,” the club said in a statement.
AC Milan also extended its condolences to Baresi’s family, while supporters known as Rossoneri joined in mourning the loss of one of the greatest players in the club’s history.
Baresi made his senior debut for Milan in 1977 and went on to spend 20 seasons at the club, making 719 appearances. During his illustrious career, he won six Serie A titles, three UEFA Champions League trophies and several other honours.
At international level, the defender was part of Italy’s squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the football world, with clubs and players praising Baresi’s leadership, class and influence on the game.
Inter Milan, AC Milan’s city rivals, described him as a key figure in the history of the Milan derby, praising his professionalism and respect throughout his career.
“Farewell to Franco Baresi, a central figure in the great Milan derbies and one of the players who shaped the history of the rivalry,” Inter said.
Juventus also paid tribute to the former Italy international, describing him as a player whose talent and character earned him a lasting place in football history.
“There are people who enter history through their talent, and others who remain there through their humanity. Franco Baresi was both,” Juventus said.
Former Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon also remembered Baresi, recalling his first Serie A appearance against AC Milan in 1995, when he faced the legendary defender.
Buffon said playing against Baresi helped him understand the importance of representing football with “class, leadership and respect.”
Baresi is widely regarded as one of the finest defenders in football history and remains an enduring symbol of AC Milan’s golden era.