AC Milan Denies Reports of Franco Baresi’s Death
On the evening of yesterday, a piece of news spread across social media that left the entire Rossoneri world — and the broader football community — in a state of shock: the alleged death of Franco Baresi. AC Milan swiftly responded with an official statement categorically denying the reports, but the words chosen by the club make it unmistakably clear that the situation remains very serious and delicate.
In the statement, AC Milan expressed its closeness to Baresi and his family, simultaneously asking for full respect for their privacy during this difficult moment. A clear message: the club stands beside its eternal captain and will not leave him alone.
A Year-Long Battle Against Illness
The battle that Franco Baresi has been fighting goes back approximately one year. It was at the start of August 2025 that he first discovered a lung condition and underwent surgery. In the months that followed there appeared to be a period of stabilisation, but unfortunately the situation has deteriorated again in recent times, as indirectly confirmed by the club’s own statement.
His last public appearance dates back to February, during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, where he served as a torchbearer alongside Giuseppe Bergomi. To those who know him well, he appeared visibly tired and worn in those images — a telling sign of the tough fight he was enduring.
Who Is Franco Baresi: The Eternal Captain
Franco Baresi, 66 years old, is one of the most iconic figures not just in Milan’s history but in world football as a whole. Captain of the Rossoneri for many years, he won everything possible with the red-and-black shirt: six Serie A titles, three European Cups/Champions League trophies, two Intercontinental Cups and much more. His legendary number 6 shirt was retired forever by AC Milan in 1997, an honour that speaks volumes about the unbreakable bond between him and the club.
Since 2020, he has held the role of Honorary Vice-President of AC Milan — a formal recognition of a figure who has always been the living symbol of the Rossoneri values: sacrifice, dedication, loyalty and love for the shirt.
News Spread Without Respect: A Necessary Reflection
It is impossible not to highlight how the spread of this news — which turned out to be unfounded — happened in a completely disrespectful manner towards a man, a family and an entire community. Situations this sensitive and personal deserve far greater care and responsibility. Any official update will come from AC Milan itself, or from Baresi’s family directly.
Forza Capitano: The Rossoneri World Is With You
At this moment, all we can do is stand by Franco Baresi, his family and all those who love him. The Rossoneri faithful from across the world send their positive energy to the man who, more than anyone else, has embodied the values of AC Milan on and off the pitch. Forza Capitano.
