international – SA Polo

Nedbank International Polo

The 2026 Nedbank International Polo brought top international action to the Inanda Club in Sandton. Hosted by Nedbank in partnership with the South African Polo Association, this premier fixture on the local calendar drew a sold-out crowd under perfect Highveld sunshine.

Following a long-standing rivalry, this year’s highly anticipated match between South Africa and the United States delivered a fast-paced, fiercely competitive game from the opening chukka. Both sides played intensely, keeping spectators gripped as momentum shifted. Ultimately, Team USA’s clinical performance in critical moments allowed the visitors to edge out the home side, securing a hard-fought 13–8 victory.

The South African team fought valiantly against a formidable American line-up and following a standout performance, USA Captain Steve Krueger was named the Most Valuable Player for his leadership on the field. The Best Playing Pony prize went to “Blueberry,” a beautiful thoroughbred owned by Duncan Ellis and ridden by Cody Ellis.

Beyond the competitive action on the field, the day was a spectacular social occasion. This year’s official event theme, Africa in Full Colour, was beautifully embraced by the crowd, with spectators looking fabulous in bold fashion choices and vibrant, contemporary styles. The picnics and hospitality marquees were filled with wonderful energy as guests enjoyed an array of delicious food, premium drinks, and the great vibes that always define this fixture.

The main test match concluded an excellent week of touring for the American side, who also featured in a midweek fixture at the East Rand Polo Club. In that match, the US team secured a 13 – 9 win against a highly competitive South African Blesboks team made up of James Gilson, Ben Crowe, captain Nico van Wyk and Charlie Dewar. The Best Playing Pony award for the East Rand fixture went to “Cinnamon,” owned by Duncan Lowe and ridden by Matias Gonzalez. SAPA extends its sincere thanks to the East Rand Polo Club, its players, and its local community for hosting the tourists so generously.

Staging an international tournament of this magnitude requires immense collaboration. The South African Polo Association extends its gratitude to title sponsor Nedbank for their ongoing commitment to the sport, as well as valued brand partners American Express, Glenfiddich Single Malt Whisky, U.S. Polo Assn., Stella Artois, EQUUS, and the Inanda Club. Additional thanks go to Ultimate Provence, Aston Martin and Melvill & Moon for their superb contributions to the success of the day.

Finally, SAPA expresses its heartfelt thanks to the United States Polo Association, the local polo community, the dedicated tour hosts, and the generous horse lenders who stepped up to mount the visiting side. Without their support, international test polo would not be possible. We are already looking forward to welcoming everyone back next year for another edition of the Nedbank International Polo!

Finally, our sincere thanks to the AAP and the touring Argentine team for their invaluable support in making this International encounter possible, as well as all the pony lenders who generously put forward their prized horses to be loaned to the touring side. Together, they helped make the 2025 Nedbank International Polo a truly world-class event.

Brilliant sunshine and clear blue skies set the stage for bold looks in true equestrian avant-garde style. Combined with superb hospitality, delicious food, flowing drinks, and world-class polo, the Nedbank International Polo once again delivered an exceptional experience. We can’t wait to host you all again at next year’s event!