Qatar Polo Club Unveils Inaugural Polo Al Marsa Fiesta

The Qatar Polo Club (QPC), operating under the Ministry of Sports and Youth, has announced the launch of Polo Al Marsa Qatar, the nation’s first polo showcase. Scheduled to take place from December 11 to 13, 2023, at Terminal Park, Old Doha Port, this event will feature exhibition polo in a specially designed grass arena, complemented by a festival celebrating high-caliber polo matches, cultural displays, and hospitality.

International players from Argentina and Chile will participate in the showcase, which is part of the Qatar-Argentina and Chile 2025 Year of Culture. This initiative aims to foster enduring cultural partnerships between Qatar and these two nations. Over the course of three days, attendees will witness a variety of events, including a Juniors play-off, a Women’s exhibition match, and the Years of Culture Championship Cup, designed to highlight how sport can unite people and strengthen bonds between nations.

Event Highlights and Cultural Significance

The centerpiece of the event, the Polo AlMarsa Championship Cup, will feature mixed teams composed of Qatari and international players, signifying a landmark debut for polo in Qatar. QPC Chairman Ashraf Abuissa emphasized the importance of this event, stating, “As the official home of polo in the country, our mission is to celebrate equestrian and athletic excellence and raise awareness of this sport.” He noted that polo has long been a symbol of skill, unity, and tradition in the region.

Adding to the sentiment, QPC Director General Fuad Almudahka remarked, “Polo AlMarsa reflects our commitment to rekindling this heritage sport, enabling us to create a new tradition that connects our community and elevates local talent on an international stage.”

The event also aims to enhance cultural connections. H E Mohammed Al Kuwari, Years of Culture Advisor on Latin America and former Ambassador to Mexico, stated, “The Years of Culture has always shown that sport and culture are two sides of the same coin as both bring people together across borders.” He highlighted how Polo AlMarsa will link Qatar’s equestrian heritage with cherished traditions in Chile and Argentina.

Experiential Offerings and Activities

According to Eng. Mohammed Abdulla Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port, hosting Qatar’s first-ever polo event represents a significant milestone in establishing the port as a vibrant cultural and tourism destination. “Through hosting this event, we aim to bring together Qatar’s rich heritage and modern spirit,” he stated, emphasizing the event’s role in enriching the nation’s cultural identity.

Jassim AlMahmoud, Director of Public Relations and Communications for Visit Qatar, described Polo AlMarsa as a remarkable addition to the country’s events calendar. He noted, “This event showcases Qatar’s equestrian tradition while introducing a global sport that resonates with culture and heritage.” The initiative aims to diversify the experiences available to residents and visitors alike.

The program will commence with the Polo AlMarsa Youth Camp on December 11, followed by two days filled with polo matches and cultural experiences. Day two will feature a grand welcome parade with over 50 horses, an official opening ceremony hosted by the Years of Culture alongside a world-class Chilean Cultural Horse Show, and a series of matches including the Mini Mallet Cup and Women’s Exhibition Match.

The final day, December 13, known as the International Day of Polo, will culminate in the Polo AlMarsa Championship Cup alongside heritage demonstrations and a closing awards ceremony. Throughout the event, a lively Polo Village will host food trucks, retail options, live entertainment, and family activities. Exclusive lounges will provide elevated comfort for guests, dignitaries, and sponsors.

Polo Al Marsa Qatar promises to be a vibrant celebration of sport, culture, and community, marking a new chapter in Qatar’s sporting history.