Successful Conclusion of Asian Polo Championship Qualifiers in Riyadh
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — The Asian Polo Championship qualifiers, held at the Nova Equestrian Resort’s Arena (located west of Riyadh), concluded triumphantly, with Iran securing a spot in the 2025 World Polo Championship scheduled to take place in the United States. Iran clinched victory over Pakistan with an aggregate score of 32-30 across both legs of the competition.
During the closing ceremony, golden medals were awarded to the Iranian team by Pierrick Deler, President of the International Polo Federation, alongside Faisal bin Duwis, the CEO of the Saudi Polo Federation. The Pakistani team received the silver medals, acknowledging their commendable performance throughout the qualifiers.
In his remarks, bin Duwis highlighted that the successful hosting of this championship aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ongoing streak of accomplishments in hosting both continental and global sports events. This achievement has been made possible through the unwavering support of the nation’s leadership and the diligent efforts of the Ministry of Sports, as well as the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committees.
Both matches exhibited a high level of competitive spirit and skill, showcasing the talent of players from both teams. The robust performances were a testament to the teams’ dedication and the growing popularity of polo in the region. Bin Duwis further elaborated that the presence of officials from the International Polo Federation, along with experienced polo experts, provided invaluable insights and knowledge. This exchange is expected to enhance the administrative and technical capabilities within Saudi Arabia, ultimately aiding the country’s efforts to advance the sport of polo.
As the championship wrapped up, it left a significant mark not only on participants but also on the local sports community. It emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering a vibrant sporting culture, while also attracting international events that elevate the nation’s profile in the global sports arena. The success of the event reflects the strategic vision to promote varied sports, aligning with the ambitions set forth in Saudi Vision 2030.
In addition to the competitive dynamics observed during the matches, the atmosphere at the Nova Equestrian Resort provided a suitable backdrop for both teams and spectators. The event allowed fans to witness not just the thrilling nature of polo but also the camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed by the competing nations. This reinforces polo’s status as a sport with a rich heritage and an increasing presence in Saudi Arabia.
The successful organization of the qualifiers also serves to motivate athletes and enthusiasts within the country to partake in the sport, potentially leading to a surge in local participation and interest. Such developments pave the way for Saudi Arabia to become a significant player in the global polo scene, thereby fostering local talent and improving infrastructure dedicated to the sport.
In conclusion, the Asian Polo Championship qualifiers not only serve as a milestone for the Iranian team but also as a vital part of the evolving narrative of sports in Saudi Arabia. The collective efforts of various stakeholders underscore a proactive approach towards enhancing sports and recreation in the country, ensuring that future events will continue to raise the standards and foster an environment of excellence in competitive sports.
