26 January 2026 – Dubai, UAE: The official match schedule for the Gold Cup Dubai Open 2026 was unveiled during the annual press conference and live draw held at Al Habtoor Polo Resort Hotel. The event welcomed team representatives, sponsors, and members of the media, officially setting the stage for one of the region’s most prestigious polo tournaments.
Taking place from 30 January to 14 February 2026, the Dubai Open will be contested at a 20-goal handicap, bringing together six elite teams competing for the coveted championship title. The tournament promises a world-class display of international talent, tactical mastery, and high-intensity competition.
As the flagship event of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series (DPGCS), the Gold Cup enjoys significant international standing and is officially recognized by the World Polo Tour (WPT). Classified within the WPT Championship Cup circuit, the tournament offers some of the highest-ranking points on the global polo calendar, further cementing its appeal to top-tier players and teams worldwide.
Operating under the umbrella of the UAE Polo Federation, the DPGCS adheres strictly to the regulations of the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA). All matches are officiated by certified HPA umpires, ensuring the highest standards of fairness and professionalism. Beyond competition, the Gold Cup continues to represent sporting excellence, heritage, and Dubai’s growing influence on the international polo stage.
Commenting on the tournament’s continued success, Saeed Bin Drai, Vice Chairman of the UAE Polo Federation, praised the role of the host venue and its partners, stating:
“On behalf of the UAE Polo Federation, I extend my sincere appreciation to Al Habtoor Polo Resort for its outstanding facilities and exceptional hospitality in hosting the Dubai Polo Gold Cup, now proudly in its 17th year. The tournament’s continued growth in sporting excellence and international spectatorship reflects the strength and momentum of polo in the UAE.”
He added: “We are proud to be part of this journey and to witness the event’s expanding global recognition. Our gratitude extends to the patrons, sponsors—particularly Bentley Emirates and Diamondlease—and all supporting partners whose commitment is integral to the development of the sport in the UAE.”
The 2026 Dubai Open is proudly supported by an exceptional lineup of partners. Bentley Emirates returns as Main Sponsor, with Diamondlease joining as Co-Sponsor. The internationally renowned U.S. Polo Assn. serves as Official Apparel Sponsor, reinforcing the tournament’s classic sporting identity.
Highlighting Bentley’s continued involvement, Joseph Tayar, Prestige Division Director at Bentley Emirates, commented: “The Dubai Polo Gold Cup reflects the same values that define the Bentley brand—tradition, precision, and excellence. Following a successful 2025 for Bentley Emirates, we are proud to share what’s next, including the arrival of the new Bentayga Speed, the upcoming Flying Spur facelift deliveries later this year, and the GT Supersport, which was launched in Dubai last week and is limited to just 500 units worldwide, with deliveries beginning in 2027.”
Lukas Tremmel, General Manager of Al Habtoor Polo Resort, said:
“It is a pleasure to officially begin the journey toward the Gold Cup 2026 – Dubai Open. Over the past 17 years, the Dubai Open has grown into a globally respected tournament, earning its place on the World Polo Tour Championship circuit and reflecting Dubai’s long-standing commitment to excellence in international polo. Each season, the event brings together elite players, valued partners, and international media, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a premier destination for world-class sporting events. We look forward to an exceptional season ahead.”
The Gold Cup Final will take place on 14 February 2026 at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club. The tournament will feature six participating teams, including:
Dubai Wolves Polo
Patron: Habtoor Al Habtoor
Players:
Habtoor Al Habtoor (1)
Cesar Crespo (6)
Felix Esain (7)
Santiago Laborde (6)
Habtoor Polo Team
Patron: Mohammed Al Habtoor
Players:
Mohammed Al Habtoor (0)
Carlos Maria Ulloa (8)
Bautista Bayugar (8)
Marcos Solari (4)
Ghantoot Polo Team
Patron: Ali Al Merri
Players:
Ali Al Merri (0)
Pablo Llorente (6)
Marcos Araya (7)
Juan Jauretche (7)
Jehangiri Polo Team
Patron: Muhammad Jehangiri
Players:
Muhammad Jehangiri (0)
Gonzalo Pieres Jr. (9)
Antonio Heguy (8)
Dante Castagnola (3)
UAE Polo Team
Patron: HH Sheikha Maitha Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Players:
HH Sheikha Maitha Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum (0)
Salvador Jauretche (5)
Lucas Monteverde Jr. (9)
Rosendo Torreguitar (6)
Bangash Polo Team
Patron: Haider Bangash
Players:
Haider Bangash (0)
Federico Von Potobsky (5)
Tomas Llorente JR (7)
Alfredo Cappella (8)
Photos by Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club
