RGF Polo Team triumphs 6–4 in the National Day Cup Subsidiary Final

Under the bright winter skies of the Al Habtoor Polo Resort, the newly established RGF Polo Team signed an exceptional debut on the UAE polo circuit by defeating PBS–Mahra Polo Team 6–4 in the Subsidiary Final of the prestigious National Day Cup.

The victory marks an important milestone for a team competing in its very first tournament and doing so in an event laden with symbolic weight, commemorating the 54th anniversary of the UAE’s union.

RGF entered the field with a line-up that combined emerging brilliance and seasoned competitive experience. Charles Cooney — already named by Tatler as one of the most promising young polo talents and recently seen in the Queen’s Cup in the UK — formed a dynamic quartet alongside Santos Iriarte, Romain Gerardin-Fresse, and Oscar Colombres. Despite being newly assembled, the squad immediately displayed strong cohesion, tactical clarity, and an ability to impose rhythm in crucial phases of the match.

Romain Gerardin-Fresse emerged as a decisive force, registering four goals with precision and composure, repeatedly shifting momentum in RGF’s favour. His performance was complemented by two additional goals from Santos Iriarte, whose timing and anticipation widened the lead at key moments whenever PBS–Mahra mounted pressure.

Across the field, Petra Spanko, Tariq Al Habtoor, Miguel Delia, and Nico Petracci delivered a structured and spirited game, keeping the contest tight. Al Habtoor’s powerful riding and Petracci’s midfield commitment generated several offensive threats, while Spanko and Delia orchestrated disciplined forward movements. Yet, every promising surge was met by RGF’s measured defensive structure, intelligent repositioning, and an ability to quickly transition into counterattacks.

The National Day Cup remains one of the season’s standout fixtures, not only for its competitive dimension but also for its historical significance within the UAE sporting calendar. Claiming a win in such a context elevates the meaning of RGF’s performance and cements the team’s arrival on the scene with confidence.

“For a first tournament as a newly created team, this victory in the closing match means a great deal,” said Romain Gerardin-Fresse, founder of the RGF Polo Team. “Building this project has been a long-standing ambition, and winning our debut appearance in a commemorative tournament like this one is deeply gratifying.”

RGF Polo Team extended its appreciation to its partners — Carib International, NeuroCare, Alexandre Almorad Medical Consultancy (AAMC), and Serendipity — whose continued support plays a central role in the team’s development and ambitions.

As the UAE polo season unfolds, RGF’s opening success positions the team as a promising contender, blending youthful energy, strategic depth, and a clear vision for the competitions ahead.