Ru2(CO)4(OOCR)2L2 sawhorse-type complexes containing axial 5-(4-pyridyl)-10,15,20-triphenylporphyrin ligands

► Synthesis of Ru2(CO)4(OOCR)2 sawhorse-type complexes with axial porphyrin-containing ligands. ► Photophysical properties of the porphyrin units unchanged by coordination to ruthenium. ► Potential biological applications limited by low water-solubility.