2 days ago
Portsea Polo set to return to Point Nepean in 2026 as part of global
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The Portsea Polo is making a comeback with a new format and high end vibe that could see superyachts moored alongside the arena.
After a five year hiatus the event is returning to Point Nepean on February 14, 2026 as part of F3Polo which debuts in Sydney's Centennial Park in November.
F3Polo is a contemporary twist on the traditional sport made famous by the royals and is designed to make the game faster and bring spectators closer to the action.
Each team has three players instead of four, the rules are simplified and the chukkas (or quarters) are shorter.
Early bird tickets to the event went on sale on Tuesday much to the surprise of Portsea resident and long time polo fan Rod North.
'It's the best kept secret in Portsea at the moment,' he said.
'No one seems to know it's back on and if they do they are being very hush hush about it.
'In any case it's exciting for Portsea and very good news for local businesses.'
Mr North, who has been attending polo matches since the 1980s, said the 2026 event appeared to cater for a 'well-heeled crowd'.
'The organisers are offering moorings for spectators wanting to travel to the event by boat,' he said.
'I wouldn't be surprised if we had some superyachts turn up.'
Those without a boat but holding VIP or private marquee tickets could also buy a car park for the day near the event at Jarman Oval for $100.
Sorrento Chamber of Commerce president Krysten Le Marshall said the 'game of princes' would put the peninsula 'on the map' globally.
'The F3Polo has a global route including Singapore and New York and for Portsea to be included is such a coup,' Ms Le Marshall said.
'It's an elevated version of the old Portsea Polo and there will be plenty of flow on benefits for Sorrento with spectators coming here for after parties and to overnight.'
Mr North said the event had changed a lot since his early days at Portsea Polo when he took the car and had a picnic from the boot.
'Now, unless you want to stand all day or sprint for the first come first served lawn furniture in the VIP area, you'll have buy a table for ten on the VIP Terrace for almost $3500 or pay $730.75 for a solo ticket to a private marquee,' he said.
