Listen to the article
The draw for the Dubai Gold Cup Polo Championship has set the stage for an exciting opening match as UAE, led by Her Highness Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will face Bangash team when the tournament kicks off next Friday. The Dubai Gold Cup Polo Championship will feature six teams competing until February 14 at the Habtoor Polo Resort and Club, according to the organizing committee.
The tournament draw was announced during a press conference held by the organizing committee for the Dubai Gold Cup Polo series. The 17th edition of the championship will see UAE, Al Habtoor, Ghantoot, Dubai Wolves, Bangash, and Jehanghiry teams compete in the 20-goal handicap tournament. Additionally, two matches are scheduled for Saturday, with Dubai Wolves facing Jehanghiry, followed by Al Habtoor taking on Ghantoot.
Growing International Stature of Dubai Polo Championship
Saeed Hamid bin Drai, Vice President of the Polo Federation, emphasized that the Dubai Gold Cup has now reached the level of major international tournaments with its 20-goal classification. According to bin Drai, this high ranking attracts millions of viewers from around the world through live broadcasts of the matches. The tournament’s global classification has significantly enhanced its appeal to polo enthusiasts internationally.
During the press conference, bin Drai welcomed attendees and expressed his appreciation to the Dubai Sports Council for their continued support. He noted that the championship has maintained its presence for 16 years, with the organizing committee committed to developing it year after year. This consistent evolution has transformed the event into one of the region’s premier polo competitions.
Dubai Sports Council Support and Development
Issa Sharif, Events Director at Dubai Sports Council, confirmed the council’s commitment to supporting the championship, describing it as one of the fundamental activities in the council’s program. He highlighted that reaching the 16-year milestone represents an achievement in itself and serves as clear evidence of the tournament’s remarkable development. The Dubai Sports Council has been instrumental in elevating the profile of polo in the region.
Sharif pointed out that the international recognition and remarkable development of the Dubai Gold Cup Polo Championship have created a strong federation. He stated that the federation’s success in managing the sport with excellence stands as proof of this advancement. However, the continued growth depends on maintaining the high standards established over nearly two decades of competition.
Tournament Format and Competing Teams
The 20-goal handicap format represents the highest level of polo competition, placing the Dubai Gold Cup among elite international tournaments. The six participating teams bring together top players and horses, ensuring competitive matches throughout the two-week event. Meanwhile, the venue at Habtoor Polo Resort and Club provides world-class facilities for both players and spectators.
The tournament structure allows each team multiple opportunities to compete, with matches scheduled across several days leading up to the final on February 14. In contrast to previous years, the current edition benefits from enhanced global broadcasting capabilities, expanding the championship’s reach to international audiences. The organizing committee has worked to ensure smooth operations throughout the competition period.
The tournament is expected to conclude with the championship final on February 14, though the organizing committee has not yet confirmed specific timing for semifinal matches or the ultimate showdown. As teams prepare for their opening fixtures, anticipation builds for what promises to be another successful edition of this prestigious polo event.
