State of Origin rivalry will hit new speeds when NRL legends Petero Civoniceva, Mario Fenech and Nathan Hindmarsh team up with the guys from hit TV show Top Gear for the first Holden State of Origin Car Challenge at Top Gear Festival Sydney.
With V8 legends such as Craig Lowndes behind the wheel, the three Origin greats will attempt to pass a ball into a speeding car and slot a kick at goal through moving goalposts in a perfect fusion of rugby league and motorsport from March 8-9 at Sydney Motorsport Park.
And the 'Falcon', Mario Fenech, is wasting no time in declaring 2014 as the year the Blues turn the tide.
"2014 is the year for the Blues when it comes to Origin. We always say the home state has the advantage so with the Holden State of Origin Car Challenge on Blues' turf, there's nothing the Sunshine State can do to stop us," Fenech said.
"Watch out Civoniceva, 'cause the Falcon is coming for you!"
But Civoniceva, with the backing of eight straight series wins, is confident that the Maroons' supremacy can transfer from grass to bitumen.
"Queensland has more State of Origin victories on the board than New South Wales, and a winning streak well in play," Civoniceva said. "If their motorsport skills are anything like their rugby league skills, Queensland will be walking away with another State of Origin trophy."
Top Gear Festival Sydney is taking place on March 8-9 will once again be attended by Top Gear presenters Jeremy Clarkson, James May and The Stig, along with some of their legendary racing mates and celebrity friends, live in non-stop racing action. For more information, visit www.topgearfestivalsydney.com.au.