This year marked the second edition of the PPZ Cup. Originally played at 8–10 goals, the tournament was elevated to 14 goals at the request of Jürgen Schröder and strategically scheduled the weekend before Gstaad. The back-to-back timing made it easier to bring in professionals for both events, while the short trip from Zürich to Gstaad ensured the horses would arrive fresh and in top condition on the Alpine grounds.
The first games on Thursday were closely monitored by the handicap commission, as young Pedro Urturi stepped in to replace Fabio Meier, who had recently been injured. Both matches were played in the late afternoon, setting the stage for a stunning sunset to close the clash between Bien Mirada and Rhein Polo Akademie. The victories were clear, but the outcome of the tournament was still wide open.
By Saturday morning, the tension was high as players gave everything to secure a place in the final. The first match was electrifying: Gräff & Friends showed determination, with Thommy Gräff finally able to play at the level he usually enjoys in Argentina. Fran Fucci, a former Gstaad winner, brought his string in top condition, while Min Podestá shipped in his best horses from England. But fate intervened — Marcos Rooney of Bien Mirada suffered an accident and was replaced by Pato Bolaterio for the last two chukkas. Despite the setback, Gräff & Friends held on, leading by one goal.
In the second game, Polo Club Zug, slightly underhandicapped compared to Rhein Polo Akademie, put up a brave fight. Their horses were less accustomed to this level, requiring frequent changes to avoid fatigue. Still, the superior horsepower of Jürgen’s team prevailed, earning them a 2-goal victory.
Sunday morning dawned with a festive atmosphere. The club set the stage for a friendly asado, umbrellas were opened, and cheerful music drifted across the grounds as players gathered by the clubhouse for coffee and snacks.
At 11 o’clock, Bien Mirada, with its reshuffled lineup, faced Polo Club Zug. The game was fierce, with Zug refusing to give in easily, but Bien Mirada edged out the win by 1½ goals.
Then came the final: Rhein Polo Akademie, led by Jürgen Schröder, against Daniel Aegerter, who stepped in for Markus Gräff. What followed was the kind of match polo lovers dream of — a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat final. Horses were nose-to-nose, players fierce and focused, the game flowing with swift runs, sharp turns, and perfectly timed pony changes. It was a powerful choreography of speed and skill. In the decisive final minutes, Rhein Polo Akademie struck the winning goal and, with tight defense, sealed their victory.
The celebrations carried on at the clubhouse, where everyone gathered around a long tavolata for a delicious asado. Players from across Europe lingered into the afternoon, sharing stories and camaraderie before turning their eyes to the next tournament.
TEAMS
Rhein Polo Akademie (+14)
Jürgen Schröder (0)
Antón Grabosch (+3)
Adrian Laplacette (+6)
Juan Uribe (+5)
Gräff & Friends (+14)
Markus Gräff / Daniel Aegerter (0)
Thommy Gräff (+3)
Francisco Fucci (+4)
Martin Podesta Jr. (+7)
La Bien Mirada (+14)
Marcos Rooney (+5)
Juan Jauretche (+7)
Pedro Urturi (+1)
Luca Meier (+1)
Polo Club Zug (+11)
Norman Watson / Aline Haerry (0)
Justo Imaz (+3)
Facundo Guevara (+4)
Manuel Carranza (+4)
TEXT BY PPZ
PHOTOGRAPHY KATHRIN GRALLA
