Full Breakdown
Franco Baresi’s Funeral Unites Thousands of Fans and Former Teammates in Milan
8/5/2026, 6:00:47 PM
The Funeral and Public Mourning
Thousands gathered on the streets of Milan on Tuesday to pay their respects to the late Franco Baresi, the 66-year-old former AC Milan captain who died last week after a period of ill health. The ceremony was held at the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio, where club legends including Paolo Maldini, Marco van Basten, Clarence Seedorf, Roberto Baggio and Alessandro Costacurta attended. Several current AC Milan players on a pre-season tour, such as U.S. forward Christian Pulisic, also joined the mourners.
Career Highlights that Shaped a Legacy
Baresi spent his entire professional career with AC Milan, appearing 719 times over 20 seasons and scoring 33 goals, according to the BBC. He captained the side for 15 seasons and helped the Rossoneri secure 18 major trophies, including six Serie A titles, three Champions League crowns, four Italian Super Cups, three UEFA Super Cups and two Club World Cups. Internationally, he earned 81 caps for Italy, was part of the 1982 World Cup-winning squad, and played in the 1994 final that Italy lost to Brazil.
Key Statistics
- Club appearances: 719
- Goals for Milan: 33
- International caps: 81 (both BBC and ESPN)
- Major trophies with Milan: 18 total – six Serie A, three Champions League, four Italian Super Cups, three UEFA Super Cups, two Club World Cups
- Honours: Number 6 jersey retired; made honorary president of the club in 2020.
Official Club Responses
AC Milan announced that the team will honour Baresi before their upcoming friendly against city rivals Inter Milan. The club’s statement highlighted his status as a “symbol of loyalty and excellence” and confirmed that a tribute will be part of the pre-match programme.
What’s Next on the Calendar
While the senior squad continues its pre-season tour in Australia and Indonesia, the club’s next public appearance will be the scheduled friendly with Inter Milan on Wednesday, where the tribute to Baresi is expected to take place.
