Silver Cup to set the ball rolling for UAE’s high-goal polo season

Gulf Today, Sports Reporter

Launching the high-goal polo season in the UAE, the Silver Cup tournament is scheduled to commence on January 20.

The Dubai Polo Gold Cup organization recently hosted a press conference and conducted a live draw at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort, unveiling the official fixture for the eagerly anticipated tournament.

The stage is now set for a thrilling display of top-tier polo talent and competitive excitement.

Under the unwavering support and recognition of the Government of Dubai, the Dubai Sports Council, and the UAE Polo Federation, the Silver Cup, marking the commencement of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series (DPGCS), will unfold with an impressive 20-goal handicap.

Five tournaments fall under the umbrella of the DPGCS including Silver Cup (20-goal handicap), January 20 to February 3, Gold Cup (20-goal handicap) from February 7-24, Dubai Challenge Cup (8-10 goal handicap) from March 1-10,   Polo Masters Cup (6-8 goal handicap) April 1-6,     Dubai Cup (6-8 goal handicap) from April 15-20.

The World Polo Tour (WPT) acknowledges and ranks all tournaments within the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series among the premier polo competitions worldwide.

These include categories such as the WPT Championship Cup, WPT Cup, and WPT Challenge Cup.

Inaugurated in 2009 with tournaments featuring handicaps of 10-12 goals, the DPGCS has evolved significantly. Today, it hosts teams competing in 20-goal handicap matches, placing these events on par with world-class polo competitions held in Argentina, USA, UK, and Spain. The growth and recognition of the DPGCS underscore its status as a prominent fixture in the international polo calendar.

Mohammad Al Huraiz, General Secretary of the UAE Polo Federation, said: I am delighted to welcome you to this press conference for the upcoming Silver Cup 2024, a prestigious event in the world of polo in the region. I am excited to share insights into what promises to be a thrilling and highly competitive tournament.

Continuing his remarks: “The Silver Cup holds a special place in our hearts as it exemplifies the pinnacle of skill, sportsmanship, and passion for the sport. With a remarkable 20-goal handicap, we anticipate an extraordinary level of competition that will undoubtedly captivate polo enthusiasts worldwide. We extend our gratitude to the teams, sponsors, and supporters who make events like the Silver Cup possible. Your commitment to the sport contributes significantly to its growth and success.

He added, “Our dedication to nurturing the expansion of polo extends beyond conventional bounds; it signifies our commitment to spearheading a new era for the sport. This year is a remarkable milestone for our organization and the sport of Polo in the UAE, as we proudly announce our hosting of the XIII FIP World Championship in 2026. This significant accomplishment stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of the polo community and the tireless efforts of the federation's board.”

The Silver Cup 2024 operates under the esteemed oversight of the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA), adhering to stringent international standards as outlined in the HPA rules and officiated by its qualified umpires. Categorized within the World Polo Tour’s WPT Cup category, the tournament holds significant global recognition. Winners of the Silver Cup will be bestowed with 60 points, finalists with 30 points, semi-finalists with 15 points, and all other participating players with 8 points, contributing to their standing on the international polo stage.