Western Bulldogs president David Smorgon has paid tribute to gravely ill Carlton benefactor Richard Pratt ahead of their AFL match at Etihad Stadium.

Many Blues personnel have visited Pratt, the former Blues president, at home in the last few days as the billionaire enters fhe final stages of his battle with cancer.

Pratt is a massive figure at Carlton and Smorgon has paid "deep respect" for his contribution to the Blues.

"Richard, as you well know, has been an outstanding contributor to Australian society in general and, on this occasion, his contribution - his massive contribution - to the football club that he's loved, Carlton, needs to be mentioned," Smorgon said on Sunday.

"His involvement over 50 years or more has been exemplary - as a past player, as a board member, as a president, as a benefactor, as a public advocate for Carlton, he's done an outstanding job."

Smorgon also passed on the club's best wishes to the Pratt family.

Last week, Blues coach Brett Ratten said his team would be determined to win this game for Pratt - a point not lost on Smorgon.

"We know that 22 players representing the navy Blues are going to be running out there with a little bit of extra momentum and extra motivation to win the game for Richard," he said.

"Good luck to them, but I want to assure you our 22 blokes have also got a great motivation, because there's nothing better than beating Carlton."

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