AC Milan and Italy football legend Franco Baresi has died at the age of 66, bringing to an end the life of one of the greatest defenders in the history of the game.

The Rossoneri confirmed the death of their iconic former captain in a statement released on Friday morning, paying tribute to a player whose influence on the club stretched far beyond his two-decade playing career.

“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,” the club said.

False rumours preceded official announcement

The announcement came just days after AC Milan dismissed widespread rumours circulating on social media that Baresi had died following a period of ill health. At the time, the club clarified that its honorary vice-president was facing a difficult and delicate health situation but was still alive.

Baresi had disclosed in August 2025 that he underwent surgery to remove a pulmonary nodule before beginning a course of immunotherapy. His condition had since remained a matter of concern among supporters, leading to speculation before the club’s official confirmation of his passing.

News of his death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from football fans, former teammates, players and clubs across the world, all remembering one of the finest defenders ever to grace the game.

A one-club legend

Baresi dedicated his entire professional career to AC Milan, making more than 700 appearances after breaking into the first team in the late 1970s. He became synonymous with the club’s success, leading the Rossoneri through one of the most successful periods in their history.

Renowned for his exceptional reading of the game, composure on the ball, leadership qualities and impeccable tackling, Baresi established himself as the heart of Milan’s defence for two decades.

His immense contribution was recognised in 1999 when he was voted AC Milan’s Player of the Century. Two years earlier, upon his retirement from professional football, the club retired his iconic No. 6 shirt in honour of his extraordinary service and achievements.

Global recognition

Baresi’s impact extended beyond Italian football. In 2004, he was named by Pelé among the 125 Greatest Living Footballers during FIFA’s centenary celebrations, cementing his place among the sport’s all-time greats.

His remarkable career was further recognised in 2013 when he was inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame, joining an elite group of players who left a lasting legacy on the country’s football history.

Throughout his career, Baresi was admired not only for his defensive brilliance but also for his professionalism, humility and loyalty to a single club.

Distinguished Italy career

At international level, Baresi enjoyed an equally distinguished career with Italy. He was part of the Azzurri squad that won the 1982 FIFA World Cup, helping the nation lift the trophy for the first time in 44 years.

He later starred at the 1990 World Cup on home soil, where Italy finished third and Baresi earned a place in the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team for his outstanding performances.

Baresi captained Italy to the final of the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States. Despite recovering from injury to feature in the final, he endured heartbreak after missing a penalty in the shootout as Brazil claimed the title.

He also represented Italy at the UEFA European Championships in 1980 and 1988, as well as the 1984 Olympic Games, reaching the semi-finals in each tournament. His achievements for both club and country ensure his legacy will remain one of the greatest in football history.