State of Origin rivalry will reach a powerful new level in 2026, with the Maroons Foundation and Blues Foundation going head-to-head in a first-of-its-kind off field challenge designed to unite and inspire communities.
For the first time in Origin history, the battle lines won’t be drawn solely by the scoreboard at stadiums across the country.
Instead, the respective foundations will lead the charge beyond the game, with a fierce fundraising rivalry set to unfold over a period of just over two months.
With support from the Queensland Government and The Courier Mail, the Maroons Foundation will aim to out raise its NSW counterpart, harnessing the passion of Queenslanders to deliver lasting community impact.
The Maroons Foundation is dedicated to building stronger Queensland communities through rugby league, driving the QRL’s commitment to going ‘Beyond the Game’.
QRL chief executive officer Ben Ikin said the campaign gave Queenslanders another way to show what it truly means to be part of the Maroons family.
“State of Origin has always been about more than 80 minutes of footy – it’s about pride, connection and standing up for who we are,” Ikin said.
“This initiative gives Queenslanders the chance to wear their Maroons spirit in a different way by helping create real, lasting change in communities across the state.”
Every dollar raised through the Maroons Foundation will directly support initiatives that strengthen Queensland communities – from wellbeing and health programs to inclusive change-room facilities and First Nations pathways.
Ikin said community accessibility was at the heart of the Foundation’s mission.
“Whether it’s supporting wheelchair rugby league, all abilities programs, rebuilding facilities after natural disasters, hosting cultural carnivals, or making the game accessible in regional and remote areas, the Maroons Foundation is about ensuring every Queenslander can benefit from our game,” he said.
“This rivalry is about more than winning – it’s about impact, and what we can achieve together as Queenslanders.”
Ikin also acknowledged the support of Queensland Gives, the official charity partner of the QRL’s philanthropic arm.
Joining Ikin at today’s campaign launch were Maroons great Ali Brigginshaw, Queensland and Australian Wheelchair Rugby League representative Daniel Anstey; and participants from the Aspley Devils and Falcons Footy – Rugby League for Children of Different Abilities program.
Anstey is one of the stars of wheelchair rugby league, having scored five tries while on debut for the Australian Wheelaroos.
Anstey, who has also played for Queensland in the State Challenge in 2023, 2024 and 2024, was thrilled to meet State of Origin legend Brigginshaw today in a show of support for the Maroons Foundation.
Fittingly, the off field foundation battle begins as the Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons prepare to take the field against NSW in tonight’s women’s State of Origin series opener in Newcastle.
The fundraising competition will close on July 8, following the final match of the men’s Origin series.
Queenslanders are encouraged to show their love for the game – and for their communities – by getting behind the Maroons Foundation and contributing to the contest beyond the field.
