Italy Soccer Great Franco Baresi Dies at 66
Is the soccer world mourning a true legend or outraged by those who exploited his death for clout?
Above: Franco Baresi on Feb. 2, 2025. Image credit: Nicolò Campo/LightRocket/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Sadly, the news that no one wanted to be true has been confirmed. Baresi is gone, and the soccer world has lost one of the greatest defenders to ever play the game. A true symbol of AC Milan and Italian soccer, he defined what it meant to wear the captain's armband with honor, and his legacy will never fade.
Narrative B
Before this mournful news was even confirmed, vultures had flooded the internet rushing to announce Baresi's death. From journalists and public figures to ordinary social media users, many people spread unverified rumors about a legend to get clout online in a show of disrespect to the man, his legacy and his family.