Recently retired AFL Fremantle midfielder Peter Bell has ruled out pursuing a career in politics.

Bell shocked the footballing fraternity on Monday when he announced his immediate retirement from the game - just a week after coach Mark Harvey and president Rick Hart urged him to continue on in 2009.

West Australian Premier Alan Carpenter said Bell would be a welcome addition to the Labor Party but the 286-game veteran categorically ruled out such a move.

"As I have said previously, I have absolutely no intention of entering politics, not now, nor in the future," Bell said in a statement.

"The timing of my decision to retire from football was not in any way, shape or form related to entering politics.

"Although I am flattered by the attention, I will be pursuing other interests and none of them involve politics.

"As I said when I announced my decision to end my football career, one of the things I am determined to do is to spend a lot more time with my family.

"A career in politics would not allow that to happen."

On announcing his retirement, Bell, a dual All-Australian and four-times best and fairest winner, said he was unsure of what the future held.

Both West Coast coach John Worsfold and Harvey have expressed interest in acquiring Bell for a specific role but the 32-year-old said a return to the footballing landscape was not in his immediate plans.

"I wouldn't categorically say I'm not going to return to footy but at this stage I definitely need a break from football," Bell said.

"It's not really on the radar for me.

"Perhaps a small role mentoring one or two guys but not an official coaching role. I just need a break from footy for a while."

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