Under a sky heavy with snowflakes and the crisp alpine air buzzing with anticipation, St. Moritz once again claimed its throne as the world’s most enchanting winter playground last weekend. The 40th Annual Snow Polo World Cup transformed the frozen expanse of Lake St. Moritz into a stage where sport, luxury, and legacy collided—a spectacle that left even the most seasoned attendees breathless. For those who witnessed it, the weekend was a reminder of why this event is unparalleled. For those who missed it, let this be your invitation to join the magic in 2026.
The Heartbeat of the Weekend: Polo on Powder
The tournament’s milestone edition paid homage to its roots, with snowfall so thick it mirrored the inaugural 1985 event. Reto Gaudenzi, the visionary founder dubbed the “Godfather of Snow Polo,” embraced the challenge with a grin: “This is snow polo—raw, wild, and unforgettable.” Six elite teams battled not just each other, but the elements, their horses kicking up clouds of powder as they carved paths across the ice.
Friday’s matches set the tone. TAOS stormed to a 9-5 victory over MACKAGE, with Argentine star Alfredo Bigatti dazzling as MVP. Meanwhile, World Polo League edged out Flexjet in a tense 6-4.5 clash, their precision in penalty shots proving decisive. But it was Sunday’s final that etched itself into history. The Kusnacht Practice, led by the unflappable Chris Mackenzie, faced off against Azerbaijan - Land of Fire, whose 1.5-goal handicap advantage kept the crowd on edge. In a finale worthy of the anniversary, Mackenzie sank the winning goal in the final chukka, sealing a 5-4.5 victory and igniting roars from the grandstands.
For those who missed it: Imagine the thunder of hooves, the crack of mallets, and the collective gasp as a ball soared through snowfall toward the posts. Now imagine it all framed by the snow-draped Alps. That’s the Snow Polo World Cup.
Where Sport Met Society
As dusk fell, the polo field gave way to St. Moritz’s legendary social whirl. The Badrutt’s Palace Gala Dinner, a jewel in the weekend’s crown, sold out weeks in advance. Beneath crystal chandeliers, guests—polo legends, European royalty, and titans of industry—toasted the tournament’s legacy with rare vintages from the hotel’s famed cellar. A charity auction raised money for alpine conservation, a cause dear to the Engadin Valley’s heart.
Later, the party migrated to King’s Social House, where Badrutt’s Palace transformed into a disco-lit playground. Polo players swapped helmets for tuxedos, dancing alongside guests until dawn, Champagne in hand. Not to be outdone, the Kulm Hotel hosted pre-match cocktails and player presentations, its historic halls echoing with laughter and the clink of champagne flutes.
And then there was Dracula’s, the members-only club where secrecy meets spectacle. Though whispers of its after-parties lingered, attendance required a golden ticket—or a very well-connected friend.
The Soul of St. Moritz
This event doesn’t simply happen—it’s meticulously crafted by the hands and hearts of St. Moritz’s finest. Evviva Polo St. Moritz AG (The Snow Polo Company) orchestrated every detail, from custom snow polo balls to clearing tonnes of powder overnight.
Grand Champions Polo Club stars like Melissa Ganzi, the tournament’s first female winner in 2019, added star power, proving polo’s evolving allure.
Local hotels shone brighter than ever. Badrutt’s Palace and Kulm Hotel didn’t just host guests—aided by the Sprezzatura team we curated experiences: helicopter transfers over snow-capped peaks, private fondue dinners, and spa rituals to soothe sore muscles after a day in the stands. Even the VIP tents, sponsored by Perrier-Jouët, became microcosms of luxury, where guests feasted on caviar and truffle-laced dishes while watching the drama unfold.
Why This Matters—and Why You’ll Want to Be There in 2026
For 40 years, this tournament has been more than a sport. It’s a love letter to St. Moritz—a place where tradition and innovation waltz seamlessly. As Gaudenzi reflected, “Snow polo is passion. It’s team spirit. It’s the magic of this valley.” That magic isn’t just for athletes. It’s for anyone who craves the thrill of a snow-dusted showdown, the warmth of a lakeside mulled wine, or the chance to dance under the stars in a palace built for kings.
The 2026 edition promises to be bolder, brighter, and more exclusive. VIP tickets are already in demand, and hotels are taking reservations. Whether you’re a polo devotee, a luxury seeker, or simply someone who believes winter should be celebrated with champagne and chukkas, mark your calendar.
To Our Partners & Guests: Thank you for trusting us to shape your Snow Polo World Cup journey. To those dreaming of 2026—let’s begin crafting your story.
Contact Sprezzatura today to reserve your place at the next chapter of alpine elegance. Explore our curated packages, exclusive access, and insider expertise at www.sprezzatura.world or reach us directly at info@sprezzatura.world. The snow awaits, and so do we.
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