- Published:
- Wednesday 8 November 2023
The Allan Labor Government is bringing one of Australia’s most iconic sporting rivalries to Melbourne, with Victorian and visiting fans set to flock to the MCG for game two of the 2024 State of Origin rugby league series.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today announced the second game of the annual best-of-three contest between the New South Wales Blues and Queensland Maroons will be held at the MCG on Wednesday, 26 June.
The 2024 match-up marks the ninth time the two teams have faced off in a State of Origin clash on Victorian soil - with the last meeting taking place in 2018 in front of a crowd of almost 90,000 fans at the MCG.
Drawing fans from across Victoria and interstate, the match is set to generate more than $36 million in economic value for the state.
It marks the most recent addition to Victoria’s already packed calendar of major sporting events slated for 2024 which includes the Australian Open, Formula 1 Grand Prix, MotoGP, AFL Grand Final, Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, Super Rugby's Super Round, Rip Curl Pro and the Boxing Day Test.
First contested in 1982, the State of Origin has grown into one of the most popular rivalries in Australian sports, regularly contested in front of sold-out crowds and ranking as one of Australia’s most viewed television programs.
Tickets for the clash go on sale to State League members today ahead of a general release on Thursday, 9 November.
For more information about the game and ticketing, visit nrl.com.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
“Australia’s biggest rugby league match will be played in Australia’s biggest stadium, as the MCG hosts the decisive second game of the 2024 State of Origin series”
“We’re proud to bring this iconic contest back to the MCG and welcoming fans from near and far to enjoy Melbourne’s vibrant hospitality, retail and hotel sectors.”