For the first time in its history, the renowned rugby league State of Origin event will take place outside of Australia, as it heads to New Zealand next year.
The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) made the official announcement on Tuesday, revealing that Game II of the 2027 series will occur at Eden Park in Auckland.
This marks only the second instance of the State of Origin being hosted beyond Australian borders, the first being a match in 1987 held at Veterans Memorial Stadium in California, where the Blues triumphed with a 30-18 victory.
ARLC chairman Peter V'landys highlighted that the scheduled match on June 16, 2027, will be part of a broader rugby league celebration in New Zealand's largest city.
"State of Origin is truly unique. It creates an atmosphere unlike anything else in Australian sport - fierce rivalry, raw passion and an intensity that can only be understood by experiencing it firsthand. It's a bucket-list event," Mr. V'landys mentioned.
He further elaborated, "It's not just the Origin match fans can look forward to - we are planning a week of rugby league festivities in the lead-up to the event, starting with a Warriors game at Eden Park on the Sunday afternoon prior to the Origin fixture."
He added, "It's going to be a complete takeover of Auckland, showcasing the best of the game to New Zealanders and fans travelling from all over the world."
Originally a rivalry between Queensland and New South Wales, the State of Origin series has gained immense popularity since its debut in 1980.
Recent alterations to eligibility rules now permit certain players to represent Queensland or New South Wales while also being eligible for New Zealand and England in international Test matches.