State of Origin football will return to the AFL calendar for the first time in 27 years.

AFL chief executive officer Andrew Dillon confirmed on Monday that Western Australia would play Victoria in Perth at Optus Stadium on February 14 next year – the first State of Origin clash since 1999.

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon Credit: AFL Photos via Getty Images

“State football is one of the great traditions of our game, with fans and players alike calling for its return for some time and we are thrilled to see it back,” Dillon said.

“Origin inspires passion, state pride and draws upon years-old rivalries that are central to the history of our game and our very greatest players.” Loading

Originating in 1977, games between Western Australia, Victoria and South Australia were regular features o

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