Hublot Polo Gold Cup 2023: Polo Elegance in Gstaad’s Breathtaking Landscape

Imagine finding yourself amidst the grandeur of the Swiss Alps, surrounded by their majestic peaks and the tranquil beauty of nature. Now, picture an event that goes beyond the limits of sports – the Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad. This isn’t just a regular tournament; it’s a blend of top-notch athleticism intertwined with the stunning beauty of the alpine scenery. From August 17th to the 20th, Gstaad transforms into a celebration of sportsmanship, luxury, and the mesmerizing wonders of nature.

Nestled at an elevation of 1050 meters above sea level, this event provided spectators with an unforgettable experience as teams battled for supremacy on the field. In a testament to their skill and coordination, Team Gstaad emerged victorious for the second consecutive year.

Most valuable player of the final, top scorer of the tournament with 17 goals, Argentina’s Raul Laplacette is definitely in his backyard on the Gstaad airport field © R&B Presse / P.Renauldon

Teamwork Triumphs with Laplacette

Visualize this: a scene painted with the vibrant colors of Gstaad, where a team led by Raul Laplacette skillfully executes a dance of coordination and strategy. Their harmony propels them towards the peak of victory. Even when Team Hublot fiercely competes, as seen in Martin Aguerre Jr.’s awe-inspiring performance, Gstaad’s solid defense stands as an unbreakable fortress.

Laplacette’s expertise goes beyond his defensive skills; it embodies a strategic artistry that transforms into brilliant offense, securing success for his team. His role as the top player in the final match and the tournament’s leading scorer, achieving an impressive 17 goals, perfectly showcases his status.

Laplacette’s insights into their strategy provide a glimpse into their success:

“On this terrain, we must press forward, attack, and keep attacking without relenting.”

Flawless Organization Paves the Path to Victory

The strategic success of Team Gstaad owes much to the meticulously planned Swiss organization, masterminded by team captain Sébastien Le Page. Their ability to replicate last year’s triumph underscores the efficacy of their approach. Le Page expressed his elation, stating,

“It’s a real pleasure because we’ve been working on it all year round for several years. So I’m both very tired and very happy.”

Le Page also highlighted the importance of skillful players and swift horses in delivering exceptional polo.

Thrilling Highlights at Europe’s Highest Altitude Polo Tournament

This tournament is far more than just another sporting event; it’s a masterpiece resonating with enthusiasts and aficionados alike. The location itself pays homage to the extraordinary, situated 1050 meters above sea level, enveloped by the embrace of the Swiss Alps.

The Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad surpasses the boundaries of a mere sports event; it’s an immersive journey into a world of sophistication, luxury, and cultured refinement. Within its bounds, the VIP area and exhibitor stalls offer glimpses into the realm of exclusive luxury items. And behold, there’s also a delightful food market that satisfies the public’s culinary desires.

In a testament to its commitment to elevated cultural experiences, this year’s event presents an innovative exhibition curated by the esteemed Adrienne Desbiolles-Syz Gallery of Zurich. The addition of Richard Orlinski’s sculptures and the premiere unveiling of Aston Martin’s latest creations infuse the Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad with an even more captivating aura.

The revered Gstaad Palace, renowned for its culinary excellence, graces the event with its culinary mastery. A grand tent next to the polo field hosts two lavish lunches and a splendid gala dinner. The culinary offerings are nothing short of exceptional, fostering an environment where conviviality and gourmet pleasures meld beneath Gstaad’s starlit sky.

Before the grand final of the Hublot Polo Gold Cup, Argentina’s 6-goaler Francisco Menendez (2 goals) helped Kielder Agro Group to third place © R&B Presse / P.Renauldon

More than Just a Game: An Exceptional Voyage

Indeed, while the heart of the Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad beats in rhythm with the pulsations of polo, it offers an immersive voyage that transcends the sport. From sumptuous displays to tantalizing feasts, the event envelops participants in an atmosphere that combines refinement with warmth. A harmonious blend of athleticism and aesthetics, this gathering unfolds against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps, a captivating tapestry of culture and sport seamlessly interwoven.

Tatiana Soubbotina with Pierre E. Genecand, the Organizator of GSTAAD POLO GOLD CUPOrga

As the final exhilarating chukker draws to a close and the echoes of cheers reverberate through the Swiss Alps, the 26th Hublot Polo Gold Cup leaves an indelible mark on the pages of this esteemed tradition. The astute words of Ricardo Guadalupe, the guiding force behind Hublot, encapsulate the essence of the event:

“It’s a story woven from our own personal experiences… the graceful choreography between horse and rider, the harmonious rhythm of tradition in perpetual motion, all converging to shape a more captivating future.”

In this annual celebration of camaraderie, athletic excellence, and cherished traditions, the Hublot Polo Gold Cup remains a captivating experience that brings together the crème de la crème of the polo world against the breathtaking backdrop of Gstaad’s splendor.