URGENT UPDATE: Sydney is set to experience a thrilling new take on polo with the launch of F3 Polo on November 8, 2023, at Centennial Park. Co-founder Simon Wilson is bringing a sexed-up version of the sport, aimed at attracting a broader audience and redefining the polo experience.
In a competitive sports landscape, F3 Polo aims to captivate spectators with its unique format. Wilson, alongside business partner Sam Hopkinson, is introducing a smaller, hexagonal field that promises faster gameplay and a more engaging experience for fans. The innovative setup allows spectators to be as close as 10 metres from the action, enhancing the thrill of watching the horses charge by. “We call it ‘so close it’s personal’,” Wilson stated. “You can feel the thunder of the horses powering towards you.”
This exciting event is expected to draw over 2,500 attendees, with ticket prices ranging from $120 for general admission to $730 for private marquee access. The highlight of the event will be a match between England and Australia, dubbed “the Ashes of Polo,” which aims to elevate the sport’s profile in the region.
F3 Polo first originated in New Zealand and features teams of three players instead of the traditional four, utilizing lighter balls that are safer for spectators. This format is designed to attract a new audience, as traditional polo often faces high barriers to entry and limited awareness. Hopkinson noted that “people don’t know about it, unless they’ve watched Pretty Woman,” referencing the film that popularized the sport.
The event will also include a range of corporate hospitality suites, music, and gourmet food stalls, creating a luxurious atmosphere that aligns with the vibe of LVMH sponsors. Wilson and Hopkinson are committed to overcoming the challenges of introducing polo to a market saturated with sports options. The duo likens their venture to the success stories of Formula 1 and Big Bash League cricket, which have successfully evolved to capture public interest.
While F3 Polo is set to launch in Sydney, additional events are planned for February 2024 in Portsea, Victoria, as well as upcoming matches in Christchurch, Auckland, and Singapore. Future expansions are anticipated in Perth and New York.
With a five-year contract secured to host F3 Polo at Centennial Park, Wilson and Hopkinson are hopeful that Sydney’s affluent crowd will embrace the sport. They believe that the combination of close proximity to the action, luxury offerings, and a festive atmosphere will successfully draw in spectators eager to dress up and enjoy an exhilarating day of polo.
Tickets are currently on sale, and excitement is building for this unique sporting event. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness this innovative take on polo that promises to be both thrilling and engaging.
