UPDATE: F3 Polo is set to make a splash in Sydney, with its exciting debut scheduled for November 8, 2023, at Centennial Park. This revamped version of polo promises to redefine the sport, bringing fans closer to the action than ever before.
Co-founder Simon Wilson is confident that the new format, which features a smaller, hexagonal field and faster gameplay, will attract a diverse audience eager for luxury sporting experiences. “We call it ‘so close it’s personal’,” Wilson stated, emphasizing how fans will feel the thunder of horses racing past them.
This innovative approach could be a game changer for the sport, which has struggled to capture widespread attention. F3 Polo matches will consist of three players per team and lighter balls, enhancing safety and engagement. “It’s designed to get the spectators to the action,” Wilson added.
The highlight of the event will be a highly anticipated match between England and Australia, referred to as “the Ashes of Polo.” This pivotal showdown is expected to draw a crowd of at least 2,500 spectators, all eager to witness this new chapter in polo history.
Beyond Sydney, F3 Polo is set to revive the long-dormant Portsea polo event in February 2024, with additional events planned for Christchurch, Auckland, and Singapore, with Perth and New York to follow.
The luxury atmosphere will be bolstered by sponsorship from the LVMH group, featuring exclusive corporate hospitality suites, gourmet food stalls, and live music—far from the traditional hot dogs and meat pies. General admission tickets are priced at $120, with VIP terrace access at $242, and private marquee entries starting at $730.
Co-founder Sam Hopkinson, a former professional polo player and director of the Australian Polo Federation, acknowledges the sport’s high barriers to entry. “People don’t know about it, unless they’ve watched Pretty Woman,” he remarked, highlighting the need for broader awareness.
Hopkinson draws parallels between F3 Polo and popular global sports franchises like Formula 1 and the Big Bash League, stating, “We’re trying to bring it to a global market, so we needed to create a scalable entertainment product.”
Yet, the challenge remains significant. With a saturated sports market, capturing attention and investment will be crucial. The limited success of Prince Harry’s Netflix polo series, which garnered only 1.1 million streams, underscores the uphill battle for polo’s mainstream acceptance.
F3 Polo is poised to transform the perception of polo in Australia, blending sport with social spectacle. As the countdown to November 8 begins, enthusiasts and curious spectators alike are encouraged to secure their tickets now.
Stay tuned for updates as this exciting event approaches, and witness the evolution of polo firsthand!
