Western Australia Determined to Host State of Origin Again in 2025
Key Western Australian government officials and prominent football figures are fiercely committed to keeping the State of Origin fixture in Perth next year. This determination comes despite growing calls for South Australia to take on Victoria instead, setting the stage for a competitive bidding war.
WA "Hellbent" on Retaining Prestigious AFL Clash
According to Channel 7 sports reporter Xander McGuire, Western Australia is "hellbent" on retaining the State of Origin match against Victoria. Sources indicate WA authorities "plan to splash the cash" in an aggressive financial bid to ensure the event remains at Optus Stadium. The recent State of Origin battle at the venue was widely regarded as highly successful, drawing significant crowds and television ratings.
Origin ambassador and West Coast Eagles legend Glen Jakovich has publicly thrown his support behind the push. "We absolutely want the rematch against Victoria next year," Jakovich declared. "Only next time, we want a West Aussie umpire in the mix and no VB's served the week of Origin," he joked, referencing the free kick count that favored Victoria 22 to 19 in the recent contest.
AFL Plans Major Expansion of Women's Representative Football
Meanwhile, McGuire has revealed that the AFL is planning to introduce women's representative football in 2026, marking a significant expansion of the women's game at the elite level. Two primary options are currently under consideration:
- An international match between Australia and Ireland
- A State of Origin series featuring Victoria versus Western Australia, Victoria versus South Australia, or possibly Victoria versus Queensland
Scheduling preferences currently point toward late July fixtures or utilizing the men's bye rounds. "There's no better way to promote AFLW than putting 32 of the best players on one field and watching the standard soar," McGuire emphasized. "It'll give a snippet of how good the W can be after another 10 or so years of grassroots development bringing the floor of the competition up."
Strategic Importance for WA Football and Economy
The push to retain State of Origin in Western Australia represents more than just sporting pride. The event brings substantial economic benefits to Perth through tourism, hospitality, and media exposure. Additionally, it serves as a crucial platform for promoting football development across the state, potentially inspiring the next generation of AFL and AFLW talent.
As discussions continue between state governments, football bodies, and the AFL, the coming months will determine whether Western Australia's financial commitment and passionate advocacy will secure another State of Origin showdown against Victoria on home soil.
