The short answer
Scott Pendlebury, a Collingwood AFL great, is in the news for two reasons: first, a secret note from an Adelaide hotel manager expressed support for him over local Crows fans during a stay; second, media reports suggest he may retire at the end of the 2026 season, with Fox Sports stating at least one Magpies great is expected to retire. Pendlebury, 38, is a six-time All-Australian and Collingwood's games record holder.Why it’s trending
The combination of a lighthearted hotel loyalty story and serious retirement speculation has driven search interest. Fox Sports reported on July 22, 2026, that at least one of Pendlebury or Steele Sidebottom is expected to retire, while the Adelaide hotel note went viral for its humorous backing of the Pies star.
Scott Pendlebury, Collingwood's veteran captain and AFL legend, is trending after a secret note from an Adelaide hotel manager revealed their support for him over local Crows fans. The note, obtained by Adelaide Now, reportedly said 'Go Pies' and was left in Pendlebury's room during a recent trip. The story has amused fans and highlighted Pendlebury's widespread popularity.
Meanwhile, Fox Sports reported on July 22, 2026, that at least one of Pendlebury or Steele Sidebottom is 'expected to retire' at season's end. The report, citing unnamed sources, suggests the Magpies are planning for a future without their veteran stars. The Sydney Morning Herald also noted that Sidebottom is set to exit, and that one of Pendlebury and Jeremy Howe makes sense as a retirement candidate.
Pendlebury, 38, is a six-time All-Australian and holds Collingwood's games record. He has been a key figure in the club's recent success, including the 2023 premiership. Retirement speculation has been building as the season progresses, with the Magpies currently outside the top eight.
The dual narratives—a heartwarming fan moment and a looming farewell—have captured the AFL community's attention. Fans are watching closely for Pendlebury's next move, with a potential retirement announcement expected in the coming weeks.
Timeline
- Fox Sports reports retirement speculation
Fox Sports reports that at least one of Scott Pendlebury or Steele Sidebottom is expected to retire at season's end, citing unnamed sources.
- SMH reports Sidebottom exit, Pendlebury uncertainty
The Sydney Morning Herald reports that Steele Sidebottom is set to exit, and that one of Pendlebury and Jeremy Howe makes sense as a retirement candidate.
- Adelaide hotel note goes viral
Adelaide Now reveals a secret note from an Adelaide hotel manager expressing support for Pendlebury over local Crows fans, which Pendlebury shared on social media.
Questions people ask
Is Scott Pendlebury retiring?
Not confirmed, but Fox Sports and SMH report that at least one Magpies great (Pendlebury or Sidebottom) is expected to retire at season's end. Pendlebury has not made an official announcement.
What was the Adelaide hotel note about?
A hotel manager left a secret note in Pendlebury's room saying 'Go Pies' to show support for him over local Crows fans, as reported by Adelaide Now.
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