State of Origin returns to the MCG in 2026
The MCG will once again play host to one of Australia’s fiercest sporting rivalries, with Game Two of the 2026 NRL Ampol State of Origin series to be held on Wednesday June 17.
The Blues and Maroons will face off under lights at the ‘G in front of what’s expected to be another massive crowd, following the electric 2024 encounter that drew 90,084 fans.
It will mark the 11th time the Origin series has been staged in Victoria and the MCG’s seventh time hosting the blockbuster, adding to a proud Origin legacy at the venue that stretches back to the early 1990s.
The 2015 clash at the MCG still holds the all-time State of Origin attendance record, with more than 91,000 fans packing the stands to witness Queensland’s narrow victory.
Melbourne Cricket Club CEO Stuart Fox said it’s an honour to again host one of the country’s premier sporting spectacles.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the NRL and fans back to the ‘G for another blockbuster State of Origin clash next year. Last time, more than 90,000 fans packed the stands, and we’re hoping to go even bigger this time,” Fox said.
“The MCG has a proud connection to State of Origin dating back to the early 1990s, and we’re excited to add to that history, while highlighting the versatility of our stadium and reinforcing our reputation as one of the world’s most iconic sporting venues.”
State of Origin MCG Attendances
| Date | Event | Attendance |
|---|---|---|
| June 8, 1994 | State of Origin: New South Wales v Queensland | 87,161 |
| May 31, 1995 | State of Origin: Queensland v New South Wales | 52,994 |
| June 11, 1997 | State of Origin: New South Wales v Queensland | 25,015 |
| June 17, 2015 | State of Origin: New South Wales v Queensland | 91,513 |
| June 6, 2018 | State of Origin: New South Wales v Queensland | 87,122 |
| June 26, 2024 | State of Origin: New South Wales v Queensland | 90,084 |
| June 17, 2026 | State of Origin: New South Wales v Queensland | ? |
Tickets
Tickets for Ampol State of Origin Game Two at the MCG in Melbourne go on sale to the public on Friday November 28, and will be available for purchase via the MCG event page. The pre-sale window for NRL Club Members and NRL Account Holders will open on Thursday November 27.
MCC members can secure their place in the Members' Reserve for the State of Origin by purchasing a ticket from 11:00am AEDT on Friday 28 November, 2025. Please note, unreserved entry will not be available for this event.
