This year, the Matildas broke Australian soccer history by becoming the first team from down under to make it to the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup. And while plenty of memorable moments from the 2023 tournament remain rent-free in our heads, the Queensland Government has announced a way they’re going to honour the Tillys in physical form: with the installation of a statue of them.
At present, Suncorp Stadium is home to statues of five Queensland State of Origin champions, including Wally Lewis, Darren Lockyer, Arthur Beetson, and more. Proudly, the new statue of the Matildas soccer team will become the first women’s sport statue outside the stadium.
With the help of Football Australia, the Government hopes to work on a design that’ll reflect the team’s achievements.
“The Matildas have created history. Not only has their performance set new benchmarks for sport, they have captured our hearts and inspired a nation,” says Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. “As a FIFA Legacy Ambassador I am so proud of our Matildas. They are role models who will inspire thousands of girls to pick up a football and play the game. It’s only fitting that we recognise all they have achieved with a permanent tribute.”
As of yet, there’s no announcement of when the new statue will be built and installed. But we’ll be sure to keep you updated.