Another Win for AM Polo as the 9th Edition of the Sir Winston Churchill Cup Concludes in Spectacular Style!
Dubai, UAE, December 14, 2024 – The highly anticipated 9th Edition of the Sir Winston Churchill Cup reached a thrilling finale, showcasing a breathtaking display of skill, sportsmanship, and equestrian excellence. The week-long tournament, held in honor of one of history's most iconic leaders, brought together elite polo teams and passionate fans for an unforgettable celebration of the sport.
Sir Winston Churchill’s enduring legacy extends beyond his remarkable leadership; he was also a devoted polo enthusiast. Churchill first fell in love with the game during his time at Sandhurst and honed his skills as an officer with the Queen's Own Hussars. Playing regularly at renowned London clubs like Hurlingham and Ranelagh, he displayed exceptional talent, combining his affinity with horses and mastery of the polo stick. His dedication to the sport reflected his competitive spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence—qualities that continue to inspire generations.
This year's tournament carried forward Churchill’s legacy, blending tradition with world-class competition, and cementing its place as a premier event in the international polo calendar.
Let’s look at the week’s highlights before diving into the Subsidiary and Final Matches on this Finals Day.
1st Day: Tuesday, 10th December
The tournament commenced with a gripping clash between Habtoor Polo and AM Polo. Having faced off several times this season, both teams brought a deep understanding of each other’s strategies, resulting in a calculated and tactical start to the match. AM Polo opened with precision, delivering well-placed goals and demonstrating consistency. However, as the game progressed, Habtoor Polo gained momentum, finding their stride in the second and third chukker. Their swift pace and cohesive teamwork ultimately secured them a commanding victory in the tournament's opening match.
Match Progression:
Habtoor Polo vs. AM Polo
0 – 3 | 3 – 3 | 6 – 4 | 8 – 6
Final Score: 8 | 6
The second match between El Basha and Wolves-Mahra kicked off with a rapid pace, as both teams showcased their skill and determination. Tomas Williams led the charge for El Basha, contributing the majority of their goals and driving their momentum forward. Wolves-Mahra, however, put up a relentless fight, maintaining their speed and improving their scoring opportunities with each passing chukker. The game remained intensely competitive and thrilling until the final hooter, with El Basha ultimately emerging victorious in a closely contested battle.
Match Progression:
El Basha vs. Wolves-Mahra
2 – 0.5 | 5 – 2.5 | 7 – 5.5 | 9 – 8.5
Final Score: 9 | 8.5
2nd Day: Thursday, 12th December
The second day of the Sir Winston Churchill Cup began with electrifying energy as El Basha took on AM Polo. Both teams displayed remarkable determination and intensity, creating a fiercely competitive showdown that captivated the audience. In the end, AM Polo claimed victory, but the thrilling contest kept spectators riveted from start to finish.
Match Progression:
El Basha vs. AM Polo
0.5 – 3 | 0.5 – 4 | 1.5 – 6 | 4.5 – 8
Final Score: 4.5 | 8
The second match of the day saw Habtoor Polo face off against Wolves-Mahra in a high-paced encounter. Habtoor Polo showcased their mastery early on, maintaining control and setting the tempo with consistent goal-scoring across each chukker. Wolves-Mahra struggled to find their rhythm until the third chukker, where they began to rally with a strong effort that carried into the fourth. Despite their late surge, it wasn’t enough to overcome Habtoor Polo’s steady and commanding performance, securing them another well-earned victory.
Match Progression:
Habtoor Polo vs. Wolves-Mahra
2 – 1.5 | 4 – 1.5 | 6 – 4.5 | 10 – 5.5
Final Score: 10 | 5.5
FINAL DAY: 14th December
The subsidiary final between El Basha and Wolves-Mahra was a thrilling rematch that showcased outstanding skill and determination from both teams. The game began with high intensity as Hani Jabshe scored early, giving El Basha an initial edge and setting the tone for a fiercely competitive contest. Wolves-Mahra responded with resilience and strong teamwork, gradually narrowing the gap. Despite their efforts, El Basha maintained their momentum and emerged victorious in a hard-fought battle.
Match Progression:
El Basha vs. Wolves-Mahra
2 – 1.5 | 3 – 1.5 | 5 – 3.5 | 7 – 3.5
Final Score: 7 | 3.5
The finals between Habtoor Polo and AM Polo once again delivered an exhilarating, heart-pounding showdown. Both teams battled fiercely, trading goals from the opening moments to the final whistle. The match began with a dynamic start as Pablo Urquiza of AM Polo opened the scoring, setting the stage for an intense contest. Habtoor Polo’s Santos Iriarte responded with impressive determination, swiftly leveling the score with a series of skillful moves. However, AM Polo ultimately triumphed, securing the Sir Winston Churchill Cup 2024 title.
Match Progression:
Habtoor Polo vs. AM Polo
3 – 3 | 5 – 7 | 7 – 11 | 8 - 12
Final Score: 8 | 12
Heightening the anticipation and prestige of the Sir Winston Churchill Cup 2024 Finals, Mr. Jochen Knecht, the CEO of IFZA and Season Sponsor, had the honor of presenting awards to the players and the winning team. HH. Sheika Alya Maktoum was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Finals, while Condicion, owned by Mr. Mohammed Bin K. Al Habtoor and ridden by Santos Iriarte, was celebrated as the Best Playing Pony. Our gratitude goes to Accenture Investment Group (AIG) for serving as the main sponsor of this tournament.
