“I’m Not Leaving Collingwood” – Darcy Moore Rejects $900M Mega Offer from Former Champions, Extends Contract to Cement Legacy
Melbourne, May 20, 2025 — In a bold and emphatic statement of loyalty, Collingwood captain Darcy Moore has turned down a staggering $900 million offer from a former AFL powerhouse to extend his contract with the Magpies, reinforcing his desire to become a club legend and finish his career in black and white.
The 28-year-old key defender, who has captained the club since 2023, stunned the AFL world by rejecting what would have been the most lucrative contract in league history. The unnamed club, reported to be a former multiple-time premiership winner, had approached Moore with a long-term, incentive-laden deal to lure him away from the reigning premiers. But Moore didn’t waver.
“I’m not leaving Collingwood,” Moore said at a packed press conference at the AIA Centre. “I grew up watching this club, I bleed black and white, and I’ve never imagined playing anywhere else. This isn’t about money—it’s about legacy, family, and unfinished business.”
Moore, who already had a contract in place through the end of 2028, has now agreed to a further two-year extension that will keep him at the club until at least the end of 2030. While financial details of the extension have not been made public, sources close to the club suggest Moore accepted a deal significantly less than the $900 million offer from the rival club, reaffirming his commitment to team culture and long-term success at Collingwood.
Club CEO Craig Kelly praised the skipper’s unwavering loyalty and influence, calling Moore “the embodiment of what Collingwood stands for.”
“Darcy isn’t just a champion player—he’s a generational leader. His decision to stay, when he could’ve walked away with the biggest contract we’ve ever seen, speaks volumes about his character and belief in what we’re building here,” Kelly said.
Moore’s leadership has been pivotal to Collingwood’s resurgence in recent years. Since assuming the captaincy, he has led the Pies to a Grand Final appearance in 2023 and a premiership in 2024, anchoring one of the league’s most formidable defences and inspiring a new wave of talent at the club.
When asked about the reported $900 million offer, Moore shrugged it off with characteristic poise. “That kind of money is life-changing, sure. But I’ve already got everything I need right here. The friendships, the battles, the fans… this is home.”
Fans took to social media to celebrate the news, with hashtags like #MooreForever and #CaptainForLife trending across X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Supporters gathered outside the Holden Centre shortly after the announcement to show their appreciation, with some even donning “2030 & Beyond” scarves.
Moore’s recommitment to the Pies ensures that the club retains not only its captain and spiritual leader, but also one of the league’s most influential figures—on and off the field.
With the ink now dry on the deal, Moore made it clear what comes next: “Now we focus on flags. We’re not done yet.”
