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Ankora Lamar has claimed victory at the UAE International Open Polo Championship 2025, defeating Ghantoot with a final score of 10 to 6.5 goals. The championship match took place at the Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club in Abu Dhabi, marking the conclusion of a prestigious tournament that brought together eight teams from February 1st, according to official reports.
The tournament ran from January 20th through February 1st under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Falah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club. Al Pasha secured third place after defeating Abu Dhabi team 11 to 8 goals in the placement match, rounding out the top positions in the competition.
UAE Polo Championship Showcases Regional Talent
The UAE International Open Polo Championship received support from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, highlighting the emirate’s commitment to developing equestrian sports. The eight participating teams competed over nearly two weeks at the Ghantoot facility, one of the region’s premier polo venues.
Sheikh Tahnoon bin Khalifa bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hasher Al Maktoum, and Saeed Hamid bin Drai, Vice President of the Polo Federation, presented trophies to the winning teams. Additionally, Saeed bin Houfan Al Mansoori, Vice President of the club’s board of directors, participated in the awards ceremony alongside other dignitaries.
Family-Friendly Activities Enhance Championship Experience
The final day celebrations extended beyond polo matches, according to Ghantoot Club officials. The Kizad Group sponsored various family and children’s activities that accompanied the championship finale, creating a festive atmosphere for attendees.
Abu Dhabi Police Cavalry also delivered equestrian demonstrations during the closing ceremonies. These performances added cultural elements to the sporting event, showcasing traditional horsemanship skills alongside modern polo competition.
Mohammed Saeed Al Raqbani, board member of the Polo Federation, and Abdulbasit Al Hammadi, Executive Director of the club, attended the championship conclusion. Meanwhile, Bruce Fennessy, Senior Director of Kizad Group, represented the event’s commercial partners at the awards presentation.
Growing Popularity of Polo in the Emirates
Ghantoot Club confirmed that the polo championship achieved significant success, reflecting the sport’s growing popularity in the UAE. The tournament serves as an important fixture in the regional polo calendar, attracting both local and international interest in equestrian sports.
However, polo in Abu Dhabi continues to benefit from substantial institutional support and world-class facilities. The combination of government backing and private investment has positioned the emirate as a leading destination for polo tournaments in the Middle East.
In contrast to some other sporting events, the polo championship maintained strong attendance throughout its duration. The family-oriented programming and diverse entertainment options contributed to sustained public engagement beyond core polo enthusiasts.
Strategic Importance for Abu Dhabi Sports Development
The championship aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader sports development strategy, which emphasizes both elite competition and community participation. Supporting traditional equestrian sports like polo reinforces cultural heritage while promoting healthy lifestyles and international sporting exchanges.
Furthermore, events at Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club contribute to Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a premier sporting destination. The facility regularly hosts national and international competitions that attract participants and spectators from across the Gulf region and beyond.
Details regarding next year’s tournament scheduling have not been officially announced by club authorities. The success of the 2025 edition is expected to inform planning for future polo championships at the venue, though specific dates and formats remain to be confirmed.
