Orlando City legend Robin Jansson announces retirement

Orlando City defender Robin Jansson has announced his retirement from professional soccer after the 2026 MLS season, ending a legendary eight-year career with the Lions.

The 34-year-old center back joined Orlando in March 2019 from from AIK Fotboll in his native Sweden. He helped the club lift the first trophy of their MLS era, the 2022 US Open Cup , and reach the 2024 Eastern Conference Final.

Jansson was named captain ahead of the 2024 season amid a historic run that saw him set club records for appearances (263), starts (256) and minutes played (23,050) across all competitions.

He's the longest-tenured player in Orlando City history.

"First, I want to say it's been a pleasure to wear this jersey and fight for this crest. When I signed here eight seasons ago, I didn't know I would be here for that long," said Jansson.

"Together, we set new standards and brought home the club's first trophy of the MLS era. I was proud and honored to be given the captain's armband along the way. I've really enjoyed it and have been doing what I love for so many years at the same club. I have been treated very well during my time here, and it has become a place I can call home and will always be connected to.

"But now it's time to step aside and retire from the game I grew up loving and dreaming about."

Jansson helped guide Orlando to their debut Audi MLS Cup Playoffs appearance in 2020, the first of seven straight postseason berths for the league's longest active streak.

He was also a key member of the Lions side that reached the MLS is Back Tournament Final in 2020 and qualified for the Concacaf Champions Cup for the first time in 2023.

The club will recognize and celebrate Jansson following Saturday's Decision Day regular-season finale vs. the New England Revolution at Inter.co Stadium (4 pm ET | Apple TV ).

"Robin will always hold a special place in the history of this club, and for me personally, because he was the first player I signed for Orlando City," said sporting director and general manager Ricardo Moreira.

"From the moment he arrived, he embraced everything this club stands for and grew into one of the most important figures in our history. He is a club legend, not only because of his performances and accomplishments, but because of the person, leader and teammate he has been throughout his time here.

"We love Robin and his family, and we wish them nothing but happiness and success in this next chapter of his life."