Franco Baresi funeral draws huge crowds in Milan at 66

Milan said goodbye to legendary defender Franco Baresi at his funeral on August 4, 2026. The service was held at the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio in Milan, where huge crowds and former teammates gathered to pay their respects. Baresi, widely regarded as one of the finest defenders in football history, died last week at the age of 66. The former Italy and AC Milan captain spent his entire 20-year playing career with the Rossoneri, becoming a symbol of the club. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief from the football world, with fans and players honoring his legacy. The funeral drew large numbers of mourners who lined the streets to say farewell to the iconic figure. Baresi’s impact on the sport is immense, having won six Serie A titles and three European Cups with Milan, and lifting the 1982 World Cup with Italy. His leadership and defensive mastery set a standard that few have matched. The scenes at the basilica reflected the deep connection he had with the city and its people. The loss is felt not only by Milan supporters but by the entire football community, who remember him as a true great of the game.