(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Draw Announced for 2026 British Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup
WEST SUSSEX, England — The draw for the 2026 St. Regis British Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup has been officially announced, with 19 teams set to compete in one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments.
The draw took place on 9 June at Cowdray House, where participating teams learned their group assignments ahead of the competition. This year’s tournament marks the 70th anniversary of the Cowdray Gold Cup and features St. Regis as the title sponsor.
The championship will run from 23 June to 19 July, with teams competing across multiple groups and crossover fixtures designed to ensure a balanced and competitive tournament.
Tournament Format
The 19 participating teams have been divided into one league of five teams and two crossover sections:
League A
- Dubai
- Ferne Park
- Clinova
- Shoreline
- Ojo Caliente
Group B
- Akasha
- Valhalla
- Black Bears
- Jehangiri
Group C
- Gaston
- White Crane
- Signet Segavas
Group D
- Marqués de Riscal/La Dolfina
- UAE
- Park Place
- Jindal Steel/La Dolfina
Group E
- Balanz Capital La Hechicera
- Kazak
- Sujan Indian Tigers
Tournament organizers selected five seeded teams based on their recent performances in the prestigious Cartier Queen’s Cup, particularly teams that secured three or more victories during that competition.
Final Scheduled for July 19
The tournament will begin on 23 June, with the championship final scheduled for 19 July. Organizers expect strong attendance for the final, which traditionally attracts large crowds.
In addition to the men’s championship match, the final day will also feature the British Ladies Open Final, making it one of the highlights of the polo calendar.
