- First players announced for Perth's Australian-exclusive 2026 AFL Origin
- Tickets on sale from 18 November for blockbuster showdown
- Supports the Cook Government's commitment to diversifying WA's economy so it remains strongest in the nation
The first players for the 2026 AAMI AFL Origin have been unveiled, with top-tier homegrown talent to represent their states in the ultimate battle between WA and Victoria.
Team WA consists of elite players including Patrick Cripps, Shai Bolton, Aaron Naughton and Tom Barrass, with WA legend and current Sydney Swans coach, Dean Cox, leading the group.
The Victorian side will include Marcus Bontempelli, Zak Butters, Jeremy Cameron and Matt Rowell, led by Geelong Cats two-time premiership coach, Chris Scott.
Fans will soon have the chance to secure their seats to witness their favourite footy stars go head-to-head in a format not seen in over 26 years, with club and AFL member presales available from Tuesday, 18 November and general public tickets available from Wednesday, 19 November.
Supported by the Cook Government through Tourism WA, the showdown between states will take place at the world-class Optus Stadium on Saturday, 14 February 2026, and is the first AFL Origin game since May 1999.
The pre-season match, which will be the only AFL Origin fixture in 2026, is expected to draw thousands of out-of-state visitors to WA, generate millions for the visitor economy, and showcase Perth to the rest of the nation when it's broadcast nationally.
Major events, like AFL Origin, demonstrate the Cook Government's commitment to economic diversification, helping build a year-round events calendar that attracts out-of-state visitors and grow the State's visitor economy to boost local business and jobs.
For all ticketing information, visit AFL Origin
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The football rivalry between WA and Victoria is one of the great sporting traditions in this country and after waiting nearly three decades for AFL Origin to return we couldn't be more excited.
"This match is a rare chance for WA footy fans to unite behind some of our State's best players and showcase Optus Stadium as a world-class sporting destination.
"It's great to see Team WA taking shape with some incredible homegrown talent and there are plenty more football stars to be unveiled in the lead-up to the blockbuster clash in February.
"The Cook Government is proud to be bringing AFL Origin back, which is sure to be an unforgettable experience for fans right across the country with Perth at the heart of the action."
As stated by Tourism Minister Reece Whitby:
"What an incredible lineup of players we have to represent WA in February's Australian-exclusive AFL Origin return.
"Coupled with the fierce competition coming from Victoria, this match is guaranteed to be a must-attend match for footy fans across Australia.
"The much-anticipated return of AFL Origin will create demand that will draw huge crowds from all over the nation, filling WA's hotels, restaurants, pubs and clubs.
"This match once again shines a spotlight on our State, proving that WA is a world-class host of major sporting events, which forms part of our government's economic diversification strategy to drive out-of-state visitation and generate valuable tourism dollars for local business and industry."
