Orlando City defender Robin Jansson retires after eight seasons with the Lions
Robin Jansson is hanging up his boots.
The Orlando City defender announced his retirement from professional soccer after the 2026 MLS season, closing the book on an eight-year career with the Lions that produced a championship, seven straight playoff appearances and every major appearance record in club history.
“First, I want to say it’s been a pleasure to wear this jersey and fight for this crest,” Jansson said in a press release from the club. “But now it’s time to step aside and retire from the game I grew up loving and dreaming about.”
A club legend by every measure
The 34-year-old center back joined Orlando in March 2019 from AIK Fotboll in his native Sweden, becoming the first signing of sporting director and general manager Ricardo Moreira.
By the time his career ends, Jansson will hold Orlando City records for appearances (263), starts (256) and minutes played (23,050) across all competitions — making him the longest-tenured player in club history. He was named captain ahead of the 2024 season.
“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,” Moreira said. “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.”
Trophy, milestones and a streak that still stands
Jansson was part of some of the biggest moments in Orlando City history. He helped the Lions lift the 2022 US Open Cup — the first trophy of the club’s MLS era — and guided them to the 2024 Eastern Conference Final.
He was also on the pitch for Orlando’s debut Audi MLS Cup Playoffs appearance in 2020, the first of seven consecutive postseason berths — the longest active streak in the league. During that span, the Lions reached the MLS is Back Tournament Final in 2020 and qualified for the Concacaf Champions Cup for the first time in 2023.
“Together, we set new standards and brought home the club’s first trophy of the MLS era,” Jansson said. “I’ve really enjoyed it and have been doing what I love for so many years at the same club. It has become a place I can call home and will always be connected to.”
How to watch Saturday’s send-off
Orlando City will recognize and celebrate Jansson following Saturday’s Decision Day regular-season finale against the New England Revolution at Inter.co Stadium. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. ET on Apple TV.
Moreira summed up what Jansson has meant to the club.
“We love Robin and his family, and we wish them nothing but happiness and success in this next chapter of his life.”