Ampol State of Origin returns to Adelaide

South Australia will again welcome the biggest rivalry in Rugby League with the return of the Ampol State of Origin in 2023.

The National Rugby League, in conjunction with the South Australian Government and the South Australian Tourism Commission, today announced that Adelaide Oval would host a match in the 2023 series, following the success of the first NRL match at the iconic venue last year.

Premier Steven Marshall said South Australia has secured the rights to host the 2023 event at Adelaide Oval – the neutral venue in the three game series.

“It’s a great result for rugby league fans, but also a big win for South Australian hotels, restaurants and cafes,” Premier Marshall said.

“More than 20,000 interstate visitors are expected to visit Adelaide to help celebrate the big match – injecting an estimated $15 million into the South Australian economy.

“Last year’s NRL State of Origin game was a real hit and delivered a cracking game in front of more than 25,000 fans – including 4,000 from interstate.” 

“Events like these create jobs and vibrancy in our great city and it’s fantastic to be able to welcome interstate Blues and Maroons fans back to Adelaide.” 

Australian Rugby League Commissioner Peter Beattie AM, in Adelaide for the announcement along with NSW rugby legend Robbie Farah, thanked the South Australian Government and the South Australian Tourism Commission for their support of rugby league and embracing Origin in 2020.

“We want to build on what we started last year,” Mr Beattie said.

“The Adelaide Oval match was a great success. We had a capacity COVID crowd and the way the city embraced the Origin Series gives us every confidence of filling the venue in 2023. State of Origin is the most successful sporting brand in Australia which we now play in the five biggest capital cities in Australia.”

Queensland Maroons Coach Paul Green said: “From all reports, our players and fans really enjoyed last year’s Origin experience in Adelaide.

“It was obviously a great night for our supporters and the players and coaches who played their part in a memorable win.

“It’s always exciting to showcase State of Origin in new markets and at iconic sporting venues like the Adelaide Oval, so I’m sure there will be a lot of people looking forward to this game in 2023.”