Franco Baresi, the former AC Milan captain and Italy defender, has died aged 66.
AC Milan announced his death on Friday, July 31, 2026, without giving a cause of death.
Baresi underwent surgery in August 2025 after doctors found a pulmonary nodule during a routine medical examination. AC Milan said the procedure was successful and that he would receive immunotherapy. The club has not said whether the condition was connected to his death.
Baresi carried the Olympic torch during the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics in February 2026.
He joined Milan as a teenager and made his senior debut in 1977. He remained at the club until 1997, making 719 competitive appearances and serving as captain from 1982 for 15 seasons.
Baresi won six Serie A titles, three European Cups, four Italian Super Cups, two European Super Cups and two Intercontinental Cups.
Baresi won 81 caps for Italy and appeared at the 1982, 1990 and 1994 World Cups. He was part of the team that won the 1982 tournament in Spain.
Italy finished third at the 1990 World Cup. Baresi captained the team at the 1994 tournament, where Italy lost the final to Brazil on penalties after a 0-0 draw.
Milan retired his No. 6 shirt after his playing career. The club named him its Player of the Century in 1999 and appointed him honorary vice-president in 2020.
