Zak Butters has officially announced his intention to leave Port Adelaide and return to Victoria. The 25-year-old dual All-Australian and three-time best and fairest winner has made headlines throughout the season regarding his future with the club.

Request for Free Agency

Butters has requested to depart via free agency, a decision he has contemplated for some time. "I've made a decision to head home. It's obviously been one that I've wrestled with for a while now," he stated. He expressed that the choice was difficult and not made lightly, emphasizing his desire to reconnect with family and friends in Victoria.

Reflecting on his time at Port Adelaide, Butters shared, "Although I've loved my time in Adelaide … I'm probably at a stage in my life where I'd like to get back around some family and friends." He acknowledged the special memories he will carry with him and expressed gratitude to the club for drafting him. "I'll always be a Port Adelaide person," he affirmed, highlighting the support he has received from fans since being drafted.

Club's Response

In response to Butters' request, Port Adelaide stated they would work to facilitate his departure while ensuring the best outcome for the club. "Port Adelaide has been informed by Zak Butters and his management that he intends to exercise his rights as a restricted free agent and explore a return home to Victoria," the club's statement read. They recognized Butters as an outstanding contributor since his debut in 2019, noting his accolades, including being a three-time John Cahill Medallist and dual All-Australian.

Butters played 17 games this season before a syndesmosis injury in Round 18 cut his campaign short. Reports indicate that he had informed some teammates of his decision to move to Victoria as early as June, although the club initially denied these claims.