The Heart Behind the Game: The Glorious Role of a Polo Patron
Being a Patron of a polo team is more than just holding a title — it’s stepping into the heartbeat of the sport. A Patron is the driving force behind their team, blending passion, strategy, and a love for the game into one thrilling role. They support their players, select their ponies, and help shape the team’s identity both on and off the field. But it’s not all about competition — being a Patron also means embracing the camaraderie, the lifestyle, and the excitement that make polo so unique. It’s about celebrating every gallop, every goal, and every moment of teamwork that turns a match into an unforgettable experience.
➤ Visit Al Habtoor Polo ClubThroughout history, legendary patrons have embodied this spirit — from Winston Churchill, whose love of polo carried him across continents, to the Maharaja of Jaipur and the Maharaja of Patiala, who helped elevate Indian polo to global prestige. In Europe, King Alfonso XIII of Spain and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, championed the sport within royal circles, while modern icons like Adolfo Cambiaso continue to redefine excellence through teams such as La Dolfina. Each of these figures represents the enduring passion, leadership, and vision that lie at the heart of what it means to be a true polo patron
The Patrons Cup Final delivered a truly spectacular day of polo. The action kicked off with an energetic Club Chukkers match between Team White and Team Blue, setting the tone for an unforgettable afternoon. That excitement carried through to the main event, where Habtoor Polo faced off against Titans Polo Team in a gripping final that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats and the intensity high until the very last goal.
1st Match for Club Chukkers crowned Blue Team winners.
Blue Team: Lauren Gold, Santos Iriarte, Edgardo Montoja and Javier Lencina
White Team: Gidreus, Tory, Tomas Iriarte and Bruno Paz
The match opened with high-octane energy from both teams, immediately setting the stage for an exhilarating game! Bruno Paz and Tomas Iriarte commanded the field with flawless teamwork and impressive plays, guiding their team to a well-deserved win in this fast-paced and spirited Club Chukkers match. Remarkably, they secured the decisive 10–3 victory for the Blues even with one player down, after Lauren Gold had to leave the game by the end of Chukker 3, making their performance all the more impressive.
Club Chukkers Progression: Blue Team vs White Team
2- 1 | 4-2 | 5-2 | 10-3
2nd Match for the Final Habtoor Polo club crowned the Champions!
Habtoor Polo Team: Mohammed Al Habtoor, Khalaf Al Habtoor, Romain G Fresse and Juan C. Guevara
Titans Polo Team: HH Khalifa Al Maktoum, Tariq Al Habtoor, Freddy Leyland and Guillermo Cuitino
Umpiring the game was Miguel Delia
The game opened with a both teams fired up and ready to give their all, 1st goal was set by Guillermo for the Titans but Mohammed Al Habtoor hit right back with an equalizer. But by the third, the energy shifted — Habtoor Polo ignited the field, showcasing their determination In the end, Habtoor Polo surged ahead with unstoppable momentum, sealing a commanding but an nailing biting fisinish for both teams as the final score was 7.5–7 for the Habtoor Team victory.
Final match Progression: Habtoor Polo vs Titans Polo Team
2 – 1.5 | 3 – 1.5 | 4 – 5.5 | 7 – 7.5
It was an action-packed Saturday Cup Final filled with excitement for everyone! Families enjoyed a variety of fun kids’ activities, an exhilarating Gold Coin Hunt, and a lively awards ceremony. Cicatriz was named Best Playing Pony, while Mohammed Al Habtoor took home the Most Valuable Player title. The winning and runner-up team trophies were proudly presented by Lukas Tremmel, General Manager of Al Habtoor Resort. Congratulations also to the day’s Gold Coin Hunt winners: Teo Bruman, Saqat Ali, and Helen Zhong.
