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Events on Friday 31 July 2026 2
1960 – 2026Franco Baresi (1960–2026)Franco Baresi (born Franchino Baresi, 8 May 1960, Travagliato, Brescia – 31 July 2026) was an Italian footballer who spent his entire 20-year professional career at AC Milan, making 719 appearances and captaining the club for 15 seasons. Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in the history of the game, he combined extraordinary positional intelligence, anticipation and the ability to read play with the authority of a natural leader. He won six Serie A titles, three European Cups/Champions Leagues and the 1982 FIFA World Cup with Italy. His number 6 shirt was retired by AC Milan upon his retirement in 1997 -- the first player in the clubs history to receive that honour. He died on 31 July 2026, aged 66; AC Milan announced his passing with the words "The entire history of AC Milan is in tears."
2026Franco Baresi dies aged 66Franco Baresi dies on 31 July 2026, aged 66. His death is announced by AC Milan: "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 Clubs DNA, just as his iconic number 6 shirt is." No cause of death is given. Tributes arrive from across world football: from former teammates Maldini, Costacurta and Ancelotti; from FIFA; and from clubs and players throughout Europe.