Collingwood legend Steele Sidebottom has called time on his illustrious 18-year career, the club has announced.

Sidebottom informed his Pies teammates in a team meeting just this afternoon that his career would come to an end at the conclusion of 2026.

The 373-gamer is just the second ever player to feature for the black and white more than 350 times, and remains second in their total games played after club legend Scott Pendlebury.

Sidebottom is a two-time Premiership player (2010, 2023), two-time Copeland Trophy winner, two-time Anzac Day medallist and was also an all-Australian in 2018.

The 35-year-old Collingwood legend told fans in a statement on Thursday afternoon that “as a young kid from ‘Tally’ (Tallygaroopna), I could never imagine I’d finish my AFL career with over 370 games”.

“When I look back on my time at Collingwood, I’ll remember the people. So many teammates, coaches, staff and volunteers have invested their time and energy into helping me along the way,” he said.

“I’m grateful for every one of them.

“To the Magpie Army, playing in front of you is an incredible privilege – there is nothing like running out for a game knowing our fans are behind us.

“Your loyalty, passion and love for the black and white are what make Collingwood such a special place.

Head coach Craig McRae congratulated Sidebottom on his career and said “football speaks for itself”.

“His consistency, professionalism and ability to perform under pressure have been remarkable throughout his career,” McRae said.

“But for me, his greatest strength is his character. He’s authentic, caring, humble and has a wonderful way of bringing people together.

“That’s why he’s so respected by everyone at our club.”

The legendary Pie will look to finish this year with a premiership as they Pies sit in the wildcard position with just two rounds to go, taking on Hawthorn at the MCG this weekend,

The Pies will then round out the season with another game at the ‘G against Brisbane, giving fans a chance to farewell their legend before finals