The historic Ibadan Polo Club Grounds on Eleyele Road will come alive from June 9 to 15, 2025, as the city hosts the 2025 NPA Ibadan International Polo Tournament. This eagerly anticipated event promises a week of intense competition, vibrant entertainment, and a celebration of one of Ibadan’s oldest sporting traditions.
Abimbola Adeyemi, Vice President of the Ibadan Polo Club and this year’s tournament director, revealed that a record-breaking 18 teams will compete, marking the highest participation in recent years. “We have 10 away teams and 8 home teams, making this one of the most competitive editions yet,” Adeyemi stated.
Among the new teams stirring excitement are Port Elizabeth FB 9, Port Harcourt Indian Warriors, Katsina H3, and Team ASR, all set to challenge for the prestigious Ibadan Cup and other coveted trophies.
The Ibadan Cup, a highlight of the tournament, is expected to ignite fierce rivalries following the thrilling 2024 edition. As horses and riders vie for supremacy on the field, organizers have ensured a vibrant experience for spectators. A range of side attractions has been curated to engage both seasoned polo enthusiasts and newcomers, with top-tier entertainment promised throughout the week. Adequate security measures have also been put in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
Polo holds a special place in Ibadan’s cultural and sporting heritage, with a legacy dating back to 1906. As one of the city’s oldest sports, the tournament not only showcases athletic prowess but also celebrates tradition and community spirit.
The 2025 NPA Ibadan International Polo Tournament is poised to be a landmark event, drawing polo lovers and visitors to witness a spectacle of skill, strategy, and festivity.