Franco Baresi, AC Milan Legend, Passes Away at 66

Franco Baresi, the legendary defender for AC Milan and the Italian national team, has passed away at the age of 66. Known for his remarkable career spanning two decades with AC Milan, Baresi was a FIFA World Cup champion and a six-time Serie A title winner. Tributes have poured in from both AC Milan and their rivals, Inter Milan, highlighting his impact on football. His legacy as a player who embodied integrity and competitiveness will be remembered by fans and players alike. Discover more about his illustrious career and the heartfelt tributes from the football community.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 31, 2026, 14:51 IST

Franco Baresi's Legacy

Franco Baresi, the iconic footballer known for his time with AC Milan and the Italian national team, has died at the age of 66. The news was confirmed through a post on AC Milan's official X account. Baresi dedicated his entire professional career to AC Milan from 1977 to 1997, earning a place among the club's greatest legends. He was also a proud FIFA World Cup champion with Italy.

Tributes from Clubs

AC Milan expressed their sorrow on X, stating, "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."

Inter Milan, AC Milan's fierce rival, also honored Baresi, recognizing him as "one of the key figures of the rivalry" between the two clubs. They remarked, "Goodbye to Franco Baresi, our opponent in many a Derby and one of the key figures in the history of this rivalry. AC Milan's captain, talisman, and legend, in his matches against Inter, he always walked the path between competitiveness and respect."

A Remarkable Career

Throughout his illustrious career, Baresi won six Serie A titles with AC Milan, the premier league in Italian football. His accolades also include three UEFA Champions League titles, four Supercoppa Italiana trophies, two Intercontinental Cups, and two European Super Cup titles. On the international stage, he was part of the Italian squad that clinched the 1982 FIFA World Cup and finished as runners-up in 1994. Additionally, he was a Ballon d'Or runner-up in 1989, highlighting his status as one of football's elite.