Breaking: Six-time All-Australian and six-time Charles Sutton Medallist Marcus Bontempelli has delivered a powerful and emotional statement, confirming the AFL world’s biggest bombshell of the year — his decision to leave the Western Bulldogs and join Collingwood Football Club.
In a move that has stunned fans, teammates, and pundits alike, the long-time Bulldogs captain and one of the modern game’s most decorated midfielders announced the shock switch earlier today in a press conference at the AIA Centre, surrounded by Collingwood officials and new teammates.
“This wasn’t a decision I took lightly,” Bontempelli began, his voice steady but laced with emotion. “The Western Bulldogs have been my home since I was drafted. They’ve shaped me not just as a footballer, but as a person. The relationships I’ve built there — with players, staff, and fans — will always mean the world to me.”
Having played over 230 games in the red, white, and blue, Bontempelli has been the heart and soul of the Bulldogs for nearly a decade. A premiership player in 2016, a multiple-time best and fairest winner, and a perennial Brownlow contender, he’s widely regarded as one of the most influential leaders of his generation.
So why Collingwood?
“The truth is, I needed a new challenge,” he said. “I’ve always admired Collingwood from afar — the culture, the pressure, the expectation, and the passion of the fans. It’s a club that demands the best from you every single day, and at this stage in my career, that’s exactly what I want. I want to test myself in the most intense environment there is.”
Sources close to the negotiations suggest Collingwood made an aggressive, multi-year offer, with both financial and footballing appeal. But Bontempelli insists the decision was never about money.
“It’s about legacy,” he said. “It’s about continuing to grow, to lead, and to push the limits of what I can achieve. I respect everything we built at the Dogs — I’ll carry those memories forever. But now, I’m a Magpie, and I’m ready to give everything for this jumper.”
The response from Bulldogs fans has been mixed — some heartbroken, others angry, many simply in disbelief. Social media exploded within minutes of the announcement, with terms like “traitor,” “legend,” and “respect the decision” trending simultaneously.
Western Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains acknowledged the magnitude of the loss.
“Marcus is a once-in-a-generation player,” Bains said. “While we’re deeply disappointed, we understand that players have personal and professional goals. He leaves with our gratitude and respect for everything he’s done for this club.”
Meanwhile, Collingwood coach Craig McRae welcomed the star midfielder with open arms.
“Bont is a competitor, a leader, and a game-changer,” McRae said. “He fits our values, our culture, and our hunger to win. He’s going to make us better — not just on the field, but off it too.”
The AFL community now turns its eyes to the 2025 season, with the Magpies already firming as premiership favourites with the addition of Bontempelli to an already stacked list. The most anticipated fixture? Bulldogs vs. Collingwood, Round 5 under Friday night lights at Marvel Stadium.
“Will it be emotional? Of course,” Bontempelli said. “But once the ball bounces, it’s game on.”
