Port Adelaide ruck Ivan Soldo has called time on his AFL career after more than a decade of football across two clubs. 

The 30-year-old will retire effective immediately, however the club will continue to support his knee rehabilitation after he underwent surgery in February to repair his ACL. 

Soldo finishes his career with 66 games to his name, including an AFL premiership for Richmond in 2019.  

Signed by the Tigers as a category B rookie in mid-2014, he was scouted out of the state basketball system, having represented the ACT in under 16s and under 18s. 

Playing his first AFL game in 2017, Soldo still holds the record for most hitouts on debut with 42.

He moved to Alberton ahead of the 2024 season, featuring nine times in the black, white and teal. 

Soldo played 66 AFL games, including a premiership with the Tigers in 2019. Image: AFL Photos.

After injuring his knee this pre-season, Soldo since made the decision to finish his career and will relocate back to Melbourne. 

“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.” 

Soldo's career spanned across two clubs, finishing his career at Port Adelaide. Image: Matt Sampson.

Port Adelaide GM of Football Ben Rutten congratulated Soldo on his AFL career. 

“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.”