State bragging rights, absent for over two decades, are at stake as the Australian Football League (AFL) revives its State of Origin format. The much-anticipated clash between Western Australia (WA) and Victoria (VIC) is set to take place at Optus Stadium in Perth, marking a significant return for a cherished tradition in Australian rules football. This event, bringing together elite talent from two powerhouse football states, has generated considerable public interest, evident in the sold-out stadium.
Event Overview and Historical Context
The AFL State of Origin match between Western Australia and Victoria is scheduled for Saturday, February 14, 2026. This marks the first time this specific state rivalry has been contested at the elite level in over 25 years, with the last significant State of Origin match involving Victoria occurring in 1999. The revival aims to reignite a historical competition that was once a cornerstone of the AFL calendar, featuring "a famous rivalry which is as old as the game itself."
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The match's return is supported by the Western Australian Government through Tourism WA.
Coverage details indicate broadcast on Fox Footy (via Kayo Sports or Foxtel Channel 504) and free-to-air on Seven and 7plus Sport.
Match start times are noted as 4:40 pm AWST (Perth local time) and 7:40 pm AEDT (Eastern Daylight Time).
Key Personnel and Team Preparations
The coaching responsibilities highlight the caliber of leadership involved. Chris Scott, a two-time premiership mentor for Geelong, will lead the Victorian team. Dean Cox, current coach of the Sydney Swans, has been appointed as the coach for Western Australia.
Chris Scott, coach for Victoria, expressed immense confidence in his assembled team, stating, "This is the best team that I’ve ever seen take the field." He further pledged that both sides would "put on a good show."
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The teams are comprised of prominent AFL stars, with players admitting they are "all in" and treating the match with the passion it deserves.
Victoria's jumper features the iconic white 'V' on a navy blue base, while Western Australia's guernsey displays the traditional black swan on a gold background.
Match Venue and Environmental Factors
Optus Stadium in Perth is confirmed as the venue for this significant clash. Reports from the ground indicate a substantial home crowd advantage for Western Australia.
The weather forecast for Saturday, February 14, in Burswood, Western Australia, predicted sunny, breezy, and warm conditions, with a top of 33 degrees Celsius.
Descriptions of the atmosphere at Optus Stadium noted a strong local following, with "10 Sandgroper[s] to one Vic" in attendance and the heat not deterring the crowd.
Broadcast and Public Access
Extensive broadcast plans are in place to ensure wide public access to the event.
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Live coverage is available through Fox Footy via Kayo Sports and Foxtel (Channel 504).
Free-to-air television coverage is provided by Seven and 7plus Sport.
Digital coverage, including live blogs, updates, and post-match player ratings, will be offered by Foxfooty.com.au.
Initial reports indicated a sold-out crowd, though any final general public ticket releases were to be communicated via AFL Channels.
Return of a Revered Tradition
The AFL's decision to bring back the State of Origin format, particularly with a marquee matchup like WA vs. VIC, underscores a strategic effort to leverage historical rivalries and engage a passionate fanbase.
The concept's return has been described as "a once-loved format."
Questions have been raised about the potential impact of rule changes on the modern iteration of Origin footy.
The high stakes are emphasized by the phrase "state bragging rights are on the line."
Expert Commentary and Fan Sentiment
The anticipation for the match is palpable, with expressions of strong support from the home crowd evident.
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Signs reading "Kick a Vic" have been observed, indicating a passionate and perhaps parochial reception for the visiting Victorian team.
Coaches and players have voiced their commitment to delivering an engaging contest, aiming to recapture the spirit of past Origin encounters.
Conclusion
The 2026 AFL State of Origin match between Western Australia and Victoria represents a significant moment for the sport, revitalizing a historic rivalry at an elite level. The combination of top-tier talent, passionate fan bases, and extensive media coverage points to a highly anticipated event. The success of this resurgence could pave the way for further evolution of the State of Origin concept within the AFL landscape.
Sources:
foxsports.com.au: https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/live-afl-origin-game-2026-state-of-origin-western-australia-vs-victoria-live-scores-start-time-aedt-updates-blog-stats-latest-news-how-to-stream/news-story/e441f9615ad7727f3571dfdce76c7287
espn.com.au: https://www.espn.com.au/afl/story//id/47822536/afl-2026-state-origin-teams-lineups-players-date-where-how-watch-everything-know
abc.net.au: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-02-14/afl-state-of-origin-wa-victoria-live-blog/106345370
theage.com.au: https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/victoria-vs-western-australia-live-afl-state-of-origin-returns-as-victoria-wa-battle-at-optus-stadium-20260213-p5o288.html
afl.com.au: https://www.afl.com.au/origin
afl.com.au: https://www.afl.com.au/news/1461252/broadcast-details-teams-lists-tickets-and-more-in-the-ultimate-guide-to-the-2026-afl-origin-game
espn.com: https://www.espn.com/afl/story//id/47883130/2026-afl-state-origin-live-results-stats-scores-updates-highlights-report-western-australia-victoria-optus-stadium
us.headtopics.com: https://us.headtopics.com/news/what-time-does-the-2026-afl-origin-match-start-and-how-can-79689837
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