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.
"Everyone at the club and all the Milanisti must live up to Franco Baresi's
memory. "We must be strong and gather every bit of energy, even at this saddest of times."
Several icons of the game also released tributes to the legendary defender.
"Today I feel the same way as I did whenever, for whatever reason, you couldn't take to the pitch alongside us: how will we manage without our Captain?" fellow Milan and Italy legend Paolo Maldini wrote on Instagram.
"You taught me to fight until my very last breath, what it means to be devoted to the shirt, and the value of being a true leader. You did so by example, every single day: few words, but so many deeds.
"You protected me when I was a child, guided me as a teenager and inspired me as a man. You were the greatest footballer I've ever had the honor of playing alongside."
Our number 6, forever. ♾️
— AC Milan (@acmilan) July 31, 2026
Ciao, Capitano ❤️🖤 pic.twitter.com/Ofkk2iozHe
Midfielder and club legend Clarence Seedorf also paid tribute to the defender.
"I am at a loss for words," the Dutchman wrote.
"Franco Baresi — football legend, great man, and unforgettable Captain — has left us far too soon. There is no need to recount your impact; your story speaks for itself.
"You were, and will remain, an eternal symbol of leadership, loyalty, elegance, and class. Your legacy will live on, inspiring generations well beyond the football pitch."
Upon his retirement in 1997, Milan became the first Italian club to retire a player's number with his No. 6 jersey.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: AC Milan and Italy legend Franco Baresi dies at 66
