Injured Port Adelaide ruckman Ivan Soldo has announced his immediate retirement from the AFL, bringing an end to a 12-year career that included a premiership triumph with Richmond.
The 30-year-old ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in February and underwent knee surgery. The Power will continue to support his rehabilitation as he transitions to life after football.
Soldo played 66 games across stints at Richmond and Port Adelaide, but managed only nine appearances since crossing to South Australia at the end of 2023. His career was defined by resilience and a unique path to the elite level.
A premiership highlight
Soldo shared ruck duties with Toby Nankervis in Richmond's 2019 Grand Final victory over the GWS Giants, a game that was just his 22nd AFL appearance. That premiership remains a defining achievement in his career.
Originally signed by Richmond as a Category B rookie midway through 2014, Soldo was recruited from the Victorian state basketball system. Remarkably, he remained eligible to play for the Northern Knights in the under-18s Talent League that same year, featuring in several games before joining the Tigers full-time in 2015.
Return to Melbourne
Soldo has already quietly relocated back to Melbourne, where Port Adelaide will continue to support his recovery from the knee injury.
“I just want to say thank you to everyone at the club – players, coaches, staff, and our supporters,” Soldo said. “It’s been a privilege to be part of this club and to have had the opportunity to play at this level.
“I also want to acknowledge my time at Richmond. I spent almost 10 years there, and it played a huge role in shaping my career and who I am. I’ve got a lot of respect for the people, the success we shared, and everything that came with that period.
“It’s not how I would have hoped things would play out, and there have been challenges along the way, but I’m proud of what I was able to give and the experiences I’ve had.
“To my teammates at both clubs – I appreciated being part of the group and the environment. And to the fans and families who support week in and week out, that doesn’t go unnoticed.
“It’s something I never took for granted, and I understand how much it means to the people who support us.
“I’ll look back on this time with pride and respect for everyone involved.”
Port Adelaide football boss Ben Rutten paid tribute to Soldo’s contributions.
“On behalf of the entire club, we wish Ivan all the best for his next phase of life and thank him for his service to Port Adelaide,” Rutten said.
“Despite some challenges with his body over the past few seasons, Ivan has shown commitment and care for the club and his teammates.
“He can always be proud to have been a premiership ruckman for Richmond – an achievement that will always be part of his story.
“Congratulations to Ivan on a great career.”
