AFL Origin 2026: Game Time, Predicted Teams, and Viewing Guide
The highly anticipated AFL Origin match is set to return in 2026, marking the first contest in 27 years. Western Australia will host Victoria in a thrilling matchup at Optus Stadium in Perth. Fans are excited to witness this significant event in Australian Rules Football history.
AFL Origin 2026: Game Time and Broadcast Details
The inaugural match will take place on Saturday, February 14, starting at 7:40 PM AEDT. For local viewers in Perth, the game will kick off at 4:40 PM AWST. Football lovers can watch the thrilling encounter live and in stunning 4K Ultra HD on Fox Footy, Kayo Sports, and Foxtel (channel 504). The pre-match coverage will begin at 6:30 PM AEDT, featuring a star-studded commentary team.
Key Match Details
- Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
- Time: 7:40 PM AEDT (4:40 PM AWST)
- Venue: Optus Stadium, Perth
- Broadcast: Fox Footy, Kayo Sports, Foxtel
History of AFL Origin Matches
The last official AFL Origin match took place in May 1999, when Victoria triumphed over South Australia by 54 points at the MCG. With the evolution of the AFL league and the addition of new teams, interest in Origin matches dwindled. However, after listening to fans and players, the AFL has decided to revive this storied tradition in 2026.
Weather Forecast for Match Day
The weather in Perth is expected to be sunny with a high of 33 degrees Celsius. Fans should prepare for a warm day with a slight chance of rain in the afternoon and evening, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Team Selection and Coaching
This exciting match will see Western Australia coached by Dean Cox of the Sydney Swans and Victoria’s team led by Chris Scott, a dual premiership coach at Geelong. Both teams feature exceptional players, with captains Patrick Cripps for WA and Marcus Bontempelli for Victoria leading their squads into battle.
Player Line-Up and Notable Stars
All 18 AFL clubs will be represented in this historic matchup. Some standout players include:
Western Australia Key Players
- Patrick Cripps (Captain)
- Kysaiah Pickett
- Luke Jackson
- Bradley Hill
- Shai Bolton
Victoria Key Players
- Marcus Bontempelli (Captain)
- Nick Daicos
- Matthew Rowell
- Caleb Serong
- Sam Darcy
Match Expectations and Predictions
The rivalry is intense, with players like Jacob Weitering vowing to prevent Cripps from scoring. Expect a competitive atmosphere, particularly in the opening minutes of the game. Analysts predict a tightly contested match, with Victoria being favored to win by a narrow margin.
Awards and Honors
The Graham Moss Medal will be awarded to the best player from Western Australia, while the EJ Whitten Medal honors the standout player for Victoria. Each team’s coaching staff will determine the winners through votes from their respective panels.
The championship will not only spotlight talent but also commemorate the legacy of Australian Football, as the Graham ‘Polly’ Farmer Cup will be presented to the winning team.
For fans eager to see high-caliber football, the return of AFL Origin promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the action on February 14, live from Perth, at Filmogaz.com.
