The Berenberg German Polo Masters 2025 became an international polo gathering this year, delighting audiences with more new teams and players than ever before. For the first time, the tournament was part of the German Polo Tour – another milestone in the history of this Sylt classic. Despite challenging weather conditions, spectators on Sylt were treated to polo at the highest level: passionate, fair, and – typical for Sylt – with a particularly family-friendly atmosphere.
Klaus Naeve, member of the extended management board at title sponsor Berenberg, shared his enthusiasm:
“Despite continuous rainfall the night before Sunday, the playing conditions were excellent, allowing us to enjoy thrilling matches on the final day. Many thanks to the team around organizer Kiki Schneider for the great event, to the players and grooms for their efforts, and to the many guests for supporting their favorite teams.”
In a close 7:6 victory, the team of California-based electric car pioneer Lucid Motors won the final against Zuckerhut & Matterhorn – a match that could hardly have been more exciting after four intense days of play. Led by Swiss player Philipp Müller, the young and highly talented British players Ralph Robson, Tom Brodie, and Charles Cooney impressed with strong technical skills and a likeable presence on the field.
The Zuckerhut & Matterhorn team, supported by Swiss-Brazilian sponsors Pius Regli (Manne Pahl restaurant in Kampen) and Anaisio Guedes (Airport Gallery, Hamburg Airport), captured the hearts of the audience and became the unofficial favorite of the tournament. With top German player Patrick Maleitzke, Vanessa Schockemöhle, Sebastian Schneberger, and Cristobal Durrieu, the team fought for victory until the very last second.
The Zuckerhut & Matterhorn team also hosted a lively Polo Players Party at Manne Pahl in Kampen on the evening before the final, winning over players and guests alike and adding a warm, personal touch to the tournament atmosphere.
In the match for third place, Team Berenberg claimed the bronze medal once again – just as last year – with a clear 6:3.5 win over the cosmetics brand Clé de Peau Beauté. The match for fifth place ended in a 4:4 draw between Burckhardt’s Glide and defending champions König Sylt, leaving both teams in joint fifth place.
The traditional “Most Valuable Player” award went to Ralph Robson from the winning team Lucid Motors. “Best Playing Pony” was awarded to Amara, a mare owned by Patrick Maleitzke. Both prizes were presented by Black Forest Polo, the tournament’s official supplier. The “Fair Play Award” went to Lala Laplacette, presented by Anaisio Guedes from Airport Gallery Hamburg.
Charity partner Dunkelziffer e.V. was once again present and was able to raise valuable donations through the sale of specially designed bracelets.
Philipp Müller, team patron of Lucid Motors and a seasoned international polo player who visited Sylt for the first time this year, summed up the spirit of the event:
“We’re absolutely delighted and thoroughly enjoyed our week on Sylt. A wonderful and very special place. I’m sure we’ll be back next year.”
Despite the weather-related challenges, organizer Kiki Schneider was very satisfied:
“We’re grateful that from Thursday onwards, all games were able to take place as scheduled, and that the polo spirit came alive once again – even under these conditions. Many new faces and international teams truly made the 27th edition of the Berenberg German Polo Masters on Sylt an international event. We especially thank Berenberg.”
Klaus Naeve from Berenberg added:
“We’re already looking forward to the next edition of the Berenberg German Polo Masters in 2026.”
It was a tournament full of emotion, exciting matches, and many new fans. The anticipation for 2026 is already building.
Images SYLT Media & Events GmbH / Rolf Simon
Text SYLT Media & Events GmbH
