Baresi, who was one of the torchbearers to carry the Olympic flame at the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, underwent surgery for a lung nodule in 2025.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Legendary Italian football defender and former AC Milan captain Franco Baresi has passed away at the age of 66.
His death was confirmed on Friday morning via a statement issued by his former club, AC Milan.
While acknowledging his contributions to the Serie A outfit, the club expressed their condolences to Baresi’s entire family.
The statement read: “The history of AC Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi.
“His example and profound impact, like his number 6 shirt, will forever be an integral and fundamental part of the Club’s DNA and journey.
“The condolences AC Milan extends to Franco Baresi’s entire family are the same that every Rossoneri fan offers to themselves in such a difficult hour.”
ALSO READ: Paul Merson snubs Man City, tips Liverpool to push Arsenal for EPL title this season
Baresi spent his entire 20-year professional career with AC Milan (1977–1997), making 719 appearances and scoring 33 goals.
He also served as the club captain for 15 seasons, winning six Serie A titles and three European Cups.
AC Milan permanently retired his iconic number 6 shirt after he retired from football.
On the international stage, Baresi earned 81 caps for the Italian national team, famously known as the Azzurri.
He won the 1982 FIFA World Cup with Italy and captained them to a runner-up finish at the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
He also secured a third-place World Cup finish in 1990 and a bronze medal at UEFA Euro 1988.
