AC Milan and Italy legend passes away
AC Milan and Italy football legend Franco Baresi has passed away at age 66. Tributes have poured in from the football community, honoring his legacy as a captain, leader, and defensive icon.
Why it matters
Baresi is considered one of the greatest defenders in the history of the sport, and his death marks a significant loss for Italian and global football culture.
Hear this story AC Milan and Italy legend Franco Baresi has passed away at the age of 66.
No cause of death was given, but the longtime defender underwent surgery to remove a pulmonary nodule and started a course of immunotherapy in 2025.
Baresi served as captain of the Rossoneri for 15 seasons while also winning the 1982 World Cup with the Azzurri .
"The entire history of AC Milan is in tears," Milan said in a statement Friday.
"His example and integrity will remain forever embedded in the club's DNA, just like his iconic number 6 shirt. The condolences that AC Milan extend to the family of Franco Baresi in this difficult time are shared by every Rossonero, who feels this loss as their own.
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