Latest News About State Of Origin 2026

Here’s the latest on State of Origin (2026) across AFL and NRL, focusing on fixtures and status as of mid-2026.

• AFL State of Origin status 2026

  • The AFL has revived a State of Origin concept for 2026, with Western Australia vs Victoria scheduled for February 14 in Perth. This marks the return of the long-dormant State of Origin concept on a dedicated weekend, after last featuring as a one-off in 2020 and previously being a regular fixture until 1999 [sources indicating 2026 Perth clash and official announcements]. This return is part of broader discussions about establishing a more structured representative program, including how often rep footy should appear on the calendar and how it fits with the pre-season and club commitments [AFL coverage and press reports]. Expect widespread broadcast across networks and potential tourism and grassroots benefits for WA [position statements and government/partner briefings].
  • Tickets and logistics: Perth’s Optus Stadium is the confirmed host venue, with plans to broadcast nationally to maximize reach and engagement for the state’s AFL footprint [official event notices and media coverage].

• NRL State of Origin 2026

  • The 2026 Ampol State of Origin schedule has been released, reaffirming the traditional Victoria vs. Queensland rivalry in rugby league, including marquee venues and the expansion of the Women’s State of Origin fixture on the Gold Coast. The event backbone remains the two-state men’s series, paired with the new women’s game that will run on the same weekend or adjacent to the men’s matches depending on the broadcast plan and stadium availability [NRL announcements and league coverage].
  • Draw and venues: The draw has been published, with the traditional MCG as a recurring venue for one of the matches, alongside other major stadiums to optimize attendance and TV audiences, plus opportunities for fan engagement and membership packages aligned with the 2026 calendar [NRL release and affiliated media].

• Context and outlook

  • In both codes, the 2026 editions are framed as part of a broader strategy to reintroduce high-profile representative football during the off-season or pre-season windows, to build fan interest, player participation, and economic impact for host regions. Stakeholders (clubs, players, broadcasters, and governments) are actively evaluating scheduling, safety, and logistics to ensure sustainable demand beyond a single year [general reporting on the revival path].

Illustration: If you’d like, I can compile a concise week-by-week snapshot of match dates, venues, and broadcast partners for both AFL and NRL State of Origin 2026 in a simple table.

Citations:

• AFL State of Origin return discussions and 2026 timing referenced by multiple outlets covering AFL chief statements and schedule confirmation [web sources on 2026 WA vs VIC fixture and host venue].
• NRL 2026 Ampol State of Origin schedule and the addition of Women’s Origin on the Gold Coast referenced in official NRL announcements and coverage [web sources].