𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐨 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚: The Rise of the Sport of Kings on the Continent

When most people think of Africa and sports, the first that comes to mind is football. Yet, there’s a quieter, more refined spectacle sweeping across the continent: polo. Known as the Sport of Kings, polo has been played in Africa since the late 19th century, and today, it’s flourishing in over 17 countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, and Morocco. With world-class tournaments, spectacular venues, and dedicated development programs, polo is redefining luxury sport in Africa.

A Rich History and Bright Future

Polo in Africa dates back to October 1874, when the Cape Mounted Rifles played against the 75th Infantry of the Line Regiment in Cape Town — the first recorded match on the continent. From this colonial introduction, polo has evolved dramatically. The Lagos Polo Club in Nigeria (established 1914) and the Nairobi Polo Club in Kenya (1917) are historical landmarks that laid the groundwork for the game’s growth in East and West Africa.

Today, the sport boasts an elite calendar of tournaments and clubs that cater to players and fans alike. These events attract international players, celebrities, and an affluent social crowd, but also support grassroots initiatives that develop young local talent and promote inclusivity.

Val de Vie: Africa’s Premier Polo Destination

Among Africa’s most active polo centers, Val de Vie Estate in South Africa’s Paarl-Franschhoek Valley stands out. Since its founding in 2008, the Val de Vie Polo Club has become one of the continent’s most dynamic hubs for the sport. Nestled between iconic mountain ranges, the club offers a stunning backdrop for world-class polo.

The Val de Vie Polo Clubhouse, now open to both players and social members, provides exclusive access to weekly chukkas, educational sessions, and vibrant social events. Whether you’re an experienced player or a spectator looking for a glamorous afternoon, Val de Vie welcomes all. The Pink Polo tournament held here raises funds for breast cancer awareness and features players, guests, and horses dressed in pink.

To become a member or learn more about events and polo lessons, visitors can reach out via polo@valdevie.co.za.

The Big Ten: Africa’s Top Polo Tournaments

Polo in Africa is not just about prestige — it’s a cultural phenomenon that spans countries and causes. The Big Ten Polo Tournaments are among the most significant events in the African polo calendar:

1. AON Inanda International Polo (South Africa)
   Celebrated at the prestigious Inanda Club in Johannesburg, the AON Inanda International Polo stands out as a premium fixture on the African polo calendar. This tournament brings together elite players from Argentina—widely regarded as the global powerhouse of polo—and top-tier South African talent, including heirs of legendary polo families. The event is known not only for its competitive matches but also for its elegant ambiance, drawing high society, business leaders, and fashion icons to an unforgettable day of sport and style.
   
2. Cell C Inanda Africa Cup (South Africa)
   A dynamic knockout-style tournament held annually at the Inanda Polo Club, the Cell C Inanda Africa Cup is a true celebration of African unity through sport. Featuring teams from across the continent—including Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and Zimbabwe—the event showcases the growing passion and talent in African polo. Beyond the thrilling action on the field, the Africa Cup emphasizes cultural exchange, pan-African camaraderie, and community engagement, making it a standout event on the African sporting scene.
   
   
3. Access Bank UNICEF Charity Shield (Nigeria)
   Held at the prestigious Fifth Chukker Polo & Country Club in Kaduna, this tournament merges the glamour of polo with deep social impact. The Access Bank UNICEF Charity Shield raises substantial funds for programs benefiting vulnerable children, particularly in northern Nigeria. Since its inception, it has attracted major corporate sponsors, international teams, and Nigerian dignitaries, becoming a symbol of how sport can be leveraged for social good. It’s more than just a tournament—it’s a philanthropic tradition.
4. Africa Polo Open (South Africa)
   Hosted at the Rosefield Polo Club in Centurion, the Africa Polo Open is a unique event where a united African team faces off against the South African national side. It’s a celebration of inclusivity and cross-cultural sportsmanship, often featuring players from Botswana, Kenya, Nigeria, Zambia, and beyond. The atmosphere is friendly and family-oriented, with picnics, music, and children’s activities complementing the competitive matches. It exemplifies how polo is evolving into a more accessible and pan-African sport.
   
   
5. Veuve Clicquot Polo Series (Various Cities)
   Chic, stylish, and unmistakably luxurious, the Veuve Clicquot Polo Series tours major African cities such as Cape Town, Lagos, and Luanda. These events blend high-goal polo with fashion, fine dining, and the signature pop of champagne corks. Attracting celebrities, influencers, and international guests, the series elevates polo to a lifestyle experience. It serves as a platform not only for sport, but also for branding, networking, and glamorous entertainment.
   
   
6. Kenya International Polo (Kenya)
   Nairobi’s historic Nairobi Polo Club hosts the Kenya International Polo tournament, a cornerstone of East Africa’s equestrian calendar. With a polo heritage dating back to the colonial era, Kenya continues to be a regional leader in the sport. This tournament draws regional teams from Uganda, Tanzania, and South Africa, and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, combining the elegance of traditional polo with the warmth and spirit of Kenyan hospitality.
   
   
7. Lagos International Polo Tournament (Nigeria)
   One of West Africa’s oldest and most prestigious tournaments, the Lagos International Polo Tournament is held at the Lagos Polo Club, established in 1904. The event features multiple cups, such as the Open Cup, Majekodunmi Cup, and Lagos Low Cup, with elite teams from across Nigeria and international guests from the UK, Argentina, and South Africa. Known for its electric energy, glamorous parties, and elite social scene, this tournament is a fixture in both the sporting and society calendars.
8. Nedbank International Polo (South Africa)
   Staged in Johannesburg, the Nedbank International Polo event is a premier showcase of South African polo excellence. Held at the Inanda Club, this high-goal fixture draws international competition and spotlights South Africa’s best players. Beyond the sport, it’s a celebration of corporate sponsorship, elegant hospitality, and lifestyle—featuring designer lounges, gourmet catering, and live entertainment. It’s a quintessential example of how polo blends tradition with modern luxury.
   
   
9. Brightwater Polo (Botswana)
   Set against the striking backdrop of Botswana’s natural beauty, Brightwater Polo is a relatively young but rapidly rising event. Held in Gaborone, it represents the country’s growing commitment to developing polo at both amateur and professional levels. The tournament is noted for its warm atmosphere, with a strong sense of community and support for local players. As Botswana invests in its polo infrastructure, Brightwater is positioning itself as a key player in the Southern African polo scene.
   
   
10. African Patron’s Cup (Morocco)
    Held in the heart of Morocco, often near Rabat or Marrakech, the African Patron’s Cup fuses the continent’s deep-rooted equestrian traditions with modern polo flair. This tournament brings together elite players from across North Africa and beyond, and is renowned for its pageantry, scenic settings, and high-level competition. Morocco’s unique blend of Arab, Berber, and European influences is reflected in the event, making it a visually and culturally rich experience.

Polo Development and Community Building

Beyond the glitz and glamour, polo in Africa has a deeply rooted developmental side. At Uitgedacht Farm in South Africa, the Poloafrica Development Trust is revolutionizing access to the sport. With more than 70 ponies, top-class facilities, and expert trainers like Gavin Chaplin and Matthew Pohl, Poloafrica is nurturing young talent and fostering equine care excellence.

Guests at Uitgedacht can book tailored polo experiences that include morning coaching, pony care education, and afternoon chukkas. This hands-on approach demystifies polo for newcomers and provides an immersive journey into horsemanship and sport.

More Than a Sport — A Lifestyle

Whether tailgating on the sidelines at Val de Vie or attending charity matches in Kaduna, polo in Africa is as much about lifestyle as it is about sport. Elegant picnics, designer outfits, and luxury champagne blend with the thunder of hooves and mallets on manicured turf.

Polo venues in Africa are often located in stunning natural settings — from the vineyards of the Western Cape to the hills of northern Nigeria. This makes attending a polo match a multisensory experience, combining sport, nature, and society in one unforgettable package.

Polo in Africa is no longer a niche activity reserved for the elite. It’s a growing, vibrant sport that reflects the continent’s diversity, sophistication, and community spirit. With world-class venues like Val de Vie and initiatives like Poloafrica, polo is becoming more inclusive, accessible, and influential.

Whether you’re a seasoned player, a first-time rider, or just curious about this beautiful game, Africa offers a world of opportunity to experience polo like never before.