State of Origin is synonymous with rugby league.
But the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) State of Origin carries just as much rivalry and intensity between the chutes, according to Beaudesert’s Jared Borghero, who will coach Queensland in the 2026 series.
Borghero, who stepped into the coaching role last year, said the opportunity to combine two of his passions – bull riding and Origin – was something special.
“Growing up, Origin was a big thing coming from a country family,” he said.
“When the opportunity came to combine both of them, it was pretty special.”
The 2026 series, which will take place in Newcastle, Brisbane and Sydney, will also carry added significance for Borghero, who will coach his brothers Ky and Jay in the Queensland side.
Queensland enters the 2026 series looking to reclaim the title after New South Wales secured their first ever win in 2025, edging the Maroons in a tight contest in Brisbane.
For Borghero, the loss carried added frustration, having come in his first year officially leading the side.
“It was my first year in the coaching role, so yeah, it sucks,” he said.
“It’s never good to lose, especially as a Queenslander.”
Despite the result, Borghero said his role is less about technical improvement and more about preparing riders mentally for the unique pressure of Origin.
“These boys are already at the top, I can’t really make them ride better,” he said.
“My job is to make sure they’re mentally prepared and understand what Origin means to people across Queensland.”
He said the growth of PBR in Australia, alongside strong leadership and increased exposure, had helped elevate the sport’s profile.
“What it is now to what it was when I started is so far from the same,” he said.
“There’s more opportunity now, and the platform has really grown.”
Borghero said the Origin concept had also played a key role in expanding interest in bull riding beyond traditional audiences.
With a mix of experienced riders and emerging talent in the 2026 squad, Borghero remains confident Queensland can respond.
“We’ve got a couple real good old campaigners in this year and a couple of young kids coming through, so they’re going to be handy for the team,” he said.
“The main reason I want to win is to give back to the people of Queensland.”
