Eddie McGuire is set to stand down as Collingwood president at the end of 2021.
McGuire announced the bombshell decision during the Collingwood members forum on Monday night to step away from his post at the end of next season.
The 56-year-old was first elected as the Magpies' president at the end of the 1998 season, with the club winning one Grand Final and featuring in another five in that time.
“Back in 1998 it was my time to stand up for our beloved Collingwood. Instead of calling on others to do something for our club, fate turned my way. I’m proud that I answered,” McGuire said.
“I’ve given everything I have to this position and now it is time for me to set the platform for the club going forward.
“I will stand down at the end of next year and I will spend rest of my time as president of this club setting up a new era of Collingwood.”
McGuire added that he had intended to make the announcement this year, but COVID disrupted those plans.
“COVID put paid to many finely laid plans,” McGuire said.
“In conjunction with the change of direction in my media life and the timing of my son’s schooling ending, the time is right and the future is strong for our club and for me to make this call.
“My passion and love and energy for Collingwood remains undiminished. My care for the competition remains deep and abiding.
“There will be more appropriate forums to thank people and I will extrapolate on my love for the club in due course. There will always be a reason to go on, another idea, another campaign, another battle. But in due course it will be with another president.
“As always, floreat pica, may the Magpie flourish.”
One of the most polarising figures in AFL circles, McGuire will be remembered for transforming the club into a powerhouse with world-class facilities, moving from Victoria Park to Olympic Park in 2004.