AFL Origin 2026: Tickets, Dates & Ultimate Guide

After a 27‑year hiatus, AFL Origin is back, pitting Western Australia against Victoria at Perth’s Optus Stadium on Saturday 14 February.

Match details

The clash kicks off at 7.40 pm AEDT (4.40 pm AWST) and is already sold out. The game will be broadcast in 4K Ultra HD on Fox Footy via Kayo Sports and Foxtel, with commentary from Anthony Hudson, Adam Papalia, Jonathan Brown and Jason Dunstall.

Western Australia’s side is coached by Sydney Swans boss Dean Cox, while Geelong’s dual‑premiership coach Chris Scott leads Victoria. Dual Brownlow Medallist Patrick Cripps captains WA and seven‑time All‑Australian Marcus Bontempelli captains Vic.

Did You Know? Victoria and Western Australia last met in an official Origin match in 1992, when the Vics won by 67 points at the MCG.

Why the return matters

The AFL confirmed the revival in September 2025, citing strong fan and player demand. League chief executive Andrew Dillon said the game “will flock to this game when we get the best players from WA and Victoria on a massive stage.” The decision follows the success of the 2025 Indigenous All‑Stars match at the same venue, which drew 37,865 spectators.

Origin had faded in the 1990s as the national competition expanded and clubs prioritized the premiership season. Its re‑introduction offers a rare showcase of state pride and a chance for the sport’s legends to compete on a representative stage.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the timing of the match—mid‑season, before the finals sprint—could reignite regional rivalries without overtaxing players. The packed Optus Stadium and national broadcast suggest a strong commercial upside, while the involvement of marquee names like Cripps, Bontempelli and Max Gawn may set a benchmark for future State‑of‑Origin fixtures.

Potential outcomes

Analysts suggest Victoria’s depth in midfield—featuring Bontempelli, Daicos, Rowell and Gawn—could give them a tactical edge, especially if they rotate the forward line effectively. Western Australia, however, boasts a versatile ruck trio and a fast‑footed forward line that could exploit any defensive lapses.

If the Vics dominate early, they may pull ahead by a margin similar to the 1992 result; conversely, a strong WA defensive unit anchored by players such as Tom Barrass and Nathan Broad could keep the contest tight, potentially leading to a close finish.

Should the match prove a ratings success, the AFL could consider scheduling additional Origin games in future seasons, perhaps rotating venues to include other states.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the 2026 AFL Origin match start?

The game begins at 7.40 pm AEDT (4.40 pm AWST) on Saturday 14 February at Optus Stadium, Perth.

Who are the captains for the two teams?

Western Australia is captained by dual Brownlow Medallist Patrick Cripps, while Victoria’s captain is seven‑time All‑Australian Marcus Bontempelli.

How can fans watch the match?

The match will be streamed live in 4K Ultra HD on Fox Footy via Kayo Sports and Foxtel (channel 504), with coverage beginning at 6.30 pm AEDT.

Which player do you think could be the game‑changing factor in this historic reunion?