The 2026 Port Harcourt International Polo Tournament turned the Garden City into a lively hub of sport, culture and entertainment as polo lovers from within and outside Nigeria gathered at the Port Harcourt Polo Club for a week-long spectacle.
The tournament featured several exciting matches across different cups, including the Governor’s Cup, President’s Cup, King Alfred Diette-Spiff Cup, T.Y Danjuma Cup and the Rowland Cookey-Gam Memorial Cup. The finals day was filled with high-energy chukkas, skillful horsemanship and intense competition that kept fans cheering from start to finish.
One of the standout moments of the tournament was the victory of the Imperial Polo Team, who emerged winners of the Governor’s Cup after a tightly contested final. Their performance drew loud applause from spectators as they displayed teamwork, speed and tactical brilliance on the field. Other teams also recorded impressive wins in various categories, making the entire tournament highly competitive and entertaining.
Beyond the matches, the event brought fun and excitement to Port Harcourt. Families, young people and visitors enjoyed side attractions, food vendors, music, and social activities that turned the tournament into more than just a sporting event. It became a festival-like experience that showcased the hospitality and vibrant lifestyle of the city.
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The tournament also had a strong economic impact. Hotels, restaurants, transport services and local vendors recorded increased patronage as visitors trooped into the city for the games. Business owners around the polo club and in major parts of Port Harcourt reported higher sales, while the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture played a visible role in promoting business opportunities during the event.
Several dignitaries were in attendance, adding prestige to the tournament. Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, graced the finals and praised the peaceful atmosphere of the event and its contribution to the state’s image. Traditional rulers, business leaders, diplomats and top government officials were also present, using the occasion to network and support the growth of sports tourism in Rivers State.
International players from countries such as England and Argentina participated, giving the tournament a global touch and raising the standard of competition. Their presence attracted more attention to Port Harcourt as a destination for international sporting events.
Overall, the 2026 Port Harcourt International Polo Tournament was a major success. It delivered thrilling polo action, boosted local business activity, entertained residents and visitors, and strengthened the city’s reputation as a center for sports and leisure. The event once again proved that polo in Port Harcourt is about unity, culture and economic growth.
