One of Australia’s fiercest sporting rivalries is heading back to the MCG, with New South Wales and Queensland confirmed to face off in next year’s NRL State of Origin on Wednesday 17 June.
Victoria last hosted an Origin match in 2024, drawing 90,084 fans and generating more than $40 million in economic return. The MCG also holds the two biggest crowds in Origin history, most notably the 2015 clash that turned casual viewers into committed visitors.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said the 2026 fixture is expected to attract tens of thousands of interstate supporters and deliver significant benefits for local jobs and businesses.
Victoria last hosted an Origin match in 2024, drawing 90,084 fans and generating more than $40 million in economic return. The MCG also holds the two biggest crowds in Origin history, most notably the 2015 clash that turned casual viewers into committed visitors.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said the 2026 fixture is expected to attract tens of thousands of interstate supporters and deliver significant benefits for local jobs and businesses.
Interstate travellers made up more than a quarter of attendees in 2024, contributing over $44 million as visitors filled hotels, restaurants and bars across the city. With the rivalry heading south again, Melbourne operators are preparing for another surge in demand as fans book early to secure seats and extend their stay around the midweek showdown.
The 2026 match marks the 11th time Victoria has hosted an Origin game, reinforcing Melbourne’s role as a neutral battleground that still manages to feel charged and partisan once the teams run out.
It also reinforces the city’s packed major events calendar, which next year features the Australian Open Golf at Royal Melbourne with Rory McIlroy, Melbourne Winter Masterpieces: Cartier and the NFL’s first Regular Season game in Australia.
Tickets for the State of Origin at the MCG start at $49 for adults and $139 for families, with full details available at nrl.com/tickets.
