AFL State of Origin to Return in 2026 with Perth as Exclusive Host

AFL State of Origin will make its long-awaited return in 2026, with Perth’s Optus Stadium confirmed as the exclusive host venue.

The blockbuster fixture, scheduled for Saturday 14 February 2026, will see Western Australia’s best AFL players face off against Victoria’s top talent in the first Origin clash since 1999. The return has been secured through a partnership between the Western Australian Government and Tourism WA, and is tipped to deliver millions in visitor economy benefits while attracting thousands of interstate travellers.

Hailing the announcement as “a proud achievement”, WA Premier, Roger Cook, noted that local fans will finally see WA’s best players don the black swan guernsey again after more than 25 years.

Emphasising the community benefits, Sport and Recreation Minister, Rita Saffioti, said that the event will inspire young athletes and direct investment back into grassroots football.

Framing the event as part of the State’s economic diversification strategy, Tourism Minister, Reece Whitby, highlighted the opportunity to drive tourism, fill hotels and restaurants, and further strengthen WA’s global reputation as a major event destination.

AFL State of Origin, which began in 1977, was once a marquee event on the AFL calendar, regularly drawing massive crowds, including a record 91,000 at the MCG in 1989.

The 2026 edition will be staged during the AFL pre-season and broadcast nationwide across Channel 7, Fox Sports, 7Plus and Kayo, ensuring significant exposure for Perth and Western Australia.

The return of State of Origin also builds on WA’s growing AFL footprint, with North Melbourne scheduled to play home games in Perth and Bunbury in 2026 as part of a broader partnership with the League.

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