The Saudi national polo team, known as the "Green Polo Team," is preparing to compete in prestigious international tournaments, including the sixth edition of the Mohammed VI International Polo Cup. This tournament, to be held in the Moroccan cities of Rabat and Tangier from May 4th to 10th, 2026, is one of the most prominent events on the global polo calendar, bringing together elite teams under the auspices of the Royal Moroccan Polo Federation.
Historical background and importance of the tournament
Polo, often called the "sport of kings," boasts a rich history spanning centuries and embodies the highest forms of horsemanship and tactical skill. The Mohammed VI International Polo Cup underscores the growing prominence of this sport in the Arab region and North Africa, contributing to the strengthening of sporting and cultural ties between participating nations. This edition is particularly significant as it brings together teams with a long and distinguished history in the game, guaranteeing a high level of competition and attracting the attention of polo enthusiasts worldwide.
Strong competition and broad international participation
The tournament features six teams representing different continents: Saudi Arabia, Morocco (the host country), France, the United States, Portugal, and Hungary. The draw placed the Saudi team in Group B, considered a "group of death," alongside the United States and France, both traditional powerhouses in the world of polo. Group A consists of Morocco, Portugal, and Hungary. The Saudi team will begin its campaign with a highly anticipated and challenging match against France, a true test of the team's capabilities from the outset.
The Saudi national team roster and its intensive preparations
The Saudi national team in this tournament boasts a well-balanced lineup, blending experience and youth, including Prince Salman bin Mansour bin Nasser, Engineer Ibrahim Saad Al-Harbi, and rider Faisal bin Fahd Abunayan. To bolster the team's strength, and in accordance with the tournament regulations allowing for two professional riders, the team has enlisted British rider Oscar Abel and Spaniard Pablo Roldan. Prior to departing for Morocco, the Saudi team held an intensive training camp at the Saudi Equestrian and Polo Federation Academy in the Nova Resort, west of Riyadh, where the riders underwent technical and physical training to enhance their readiness and cohesion before the official competitions begin.
Expected impact and participation goals
This participation comes as part of the Saudi Polo Federation's strategy to develop the sport in the Kingdom and raise the level of Saudi players through exposure to different polo schools. It also aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to enhance the Kingdom's sporting presence on the international stage. This tournament is expected to contribute to honing the skills of Saudi riders, providing them with invaluable international experience, and further solidifying the Kingdom's position as a rising sporting power across various disciplines, including the prestigious equestrian sports.
