Milan’s San Siro tribute turns stadium into Baresi shrine

At the 6th minute of AC Milan’s Serie A home opener against Venezia FC, the San Siro crowd erupted into a rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and a chant honoring the Number 6, marking the decisive tribute moment for Franco Baresi.

Baresi’s legacy honoured at San Siro

The big screen displayed a picture of Franco Baresi as players, officials and fans observed a minute’s silence before the Serie A match between AC Milan and Venezia FC at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on August 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

The ultimate defender passed away on July 31 at the age of 66 following treatment for cancer, and his funeral was held when many of the players and staff were in Australia for a pre‑season friendly.

Milan’s first home match of the season offered the first opportunity to truly honour Baresi at the stadium where he spent his entire playing career, making 716 appearances for the club.

A giant Milan 6 jersey was laid out in the centre‑circle during the warm‑up and a huge flag bearing the same image returned to the Curva Sud. Players will wear a sleeve patch reading “6 Per Sempre” (“6 You Are Forever”) throughout the season, and a video featuring Baresi’s own words was shown before kick‑off. His grandson Gianfelice placed the jersey on what will always be his seat at San Siro.

Emotions on the touchline and in the stands

Venezia coach Giovanni Stroppa, a former teammate of Baresi at Milan, was visibly moved on the touchline, while former Milan striker Daniele Massaro wept with a hand over his heart during the minute’s applause.

As the jersey was wrapped up on the centre circle, the crowd launched into the legendary chant for Baresi, “There is only one captain,” reinforcing the deep respect for the club legend.