State of Origin Game I

Rugby league’s fiercest rivalry returns to Sydney as State of Origin kicks off for 2026

Share with:

There’s nothing quite like State of Origin. One night, two teams, and a rivalry that stops the country. Game I of the 2026 series lands at Accor Stadium this May, bringing Queensland and New South Wales face to face in the opening clash of the season.

Fast, physical and emotionally charged, Origin is more than a game. It’s atmosphere, tradition and tribal loyalty played out on one of the biggest stages in Australian sport.

Where legends are made

State of Origin Game I sets the tone for the entire series. Every tackle matters, momentum shifts quickly, and moments on this night often define what follows.

Accor Stadium provides the scale and intensity the occasion demands, with tens of thousands of fans creating an electric match-night environment from kickoff to final siren.

A midweek event worth planning around

Held on a Wednesday night, Game I is a natural centrepiece for a midweek Sydney stay. Whether you’re travelling in for the match or heading out with mates, the timing makes it easy to build an evening around the game.

Public transport services run frequently to and from Sydney Olympic Park on event nights, helping you get there and back without the stress of driving.

After the final siren

When the noise fades and the crowd disperses, Pyrmont offers a calmer way to round out the night. Hotel Woolstore 1888 is well connected to Olympic Park, making it a comfortable option for those attending the game without staying in the thick of the stadium precinct.

Settle in with a late drink at Percy, replay the big moments, and ease into the next morning at your own pace. It’s a good balance after a night that rarely holds back.

View Special Offers