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There was an emotional moment for Franco Baresi as he was a torchbearer at San Siro for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Back in August, an official statement was posted on the club’s website: “AC Milan announces that, following routine medical checks, our Honorary Vice President Franco Baresi was found to have a pulmonary nodule.” It was a surprise for everyone, especially given that Baresi is such an important presence around the club.
However, some good news came in December: Baresi returned to work late last year after recovering from his illness, and his condition is getting better with each passing week. On Friday night, there was a more positive moment for the Milan icon, as he was at San Siro for the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.
Baresi gave an interview to Corriere della Sera after his experience as a torchbearer, shedding light on his emotions after the difficult time he has had with his health. MilanPress relayed his words.
How did the opportunity come about?
“I have to thank CONI president Luciano Buonfiglio, who called me a month and a half ago asking if I was available. At first, I was a bit surprised and had to reply, ‘Are you sure? I’m not exactly in top condition’.Representing your country at the Olympics is a unique opportunity.
And when did you find out you’d be walking with Beppe Bergomi?
“They let me know a week ago. Before that, I didn’t even know which stretch I’d have to cover, much less whether I’d be doing it with anyone. But Beppe will never be a rival, he’s a great friend.”
It was at the stadium you called home…
“Doing it here made the experience even more special. San Siro has been my home for decades. I can’t tell you how heart-pounding it was when I walked out onto the pitch and saw the stadium full.
“Bocelli’s voice made everything more magical. Let’s just say it was a short but intense journey. I’d never felt such a thrill in my career. Carrying the Olympic torch means transmitting a message of peace and harmony among peoples, which we so desperately need right now.
“I walked a short distance, but in those few metres, with the eyes of the world on me, I realised I was the standard-bearer of healthy values, such as fairness in competition and harmony. One of the strongest feelings of my sporting life.”
You have had battles recently…
“In those moments, you understand so many things. You see, until something bad happens, you think you’re immortal. In that precise moment, I thought of my family. A wave of affection washed over me.
“Their warmth also helped me overcome the most difficult moments. I want to thank Milan because from day one, they provided me with the best facilities. The worst is over, I’m slowly getting back to my daily routine.
“I take lots of walks, I sometimes go to the office, and I’ll try to be progressively more present. A lesson? First of all, that your horizon is limited and you have to think day by day. Life has never given me anything; I’m used to fighting. I always have, and I’m not stopping now .”
English (US) ·