The USPA Gold Cup is one of the most prestigious high-goal polo tournaments in the world and the second major competition of the high-handicap season in the United States. Organized by the United States Polo Association (USPA), the tournament serves as the second leg of the American Triple Crown (currently known as The Gauntlet of Polo) and is played annually in Wellington, Florida.
History The tournament was officially established in 1974. In its formative years, the competition was held at the Oak Brook Polo Club in Illinois and later at the Milwaukee Polo Club, before eventually relocating to Florida, where it found its permanent home and cemented its status as a premier global equestrian event.
Played at a demanding 22-goal handicap level, the Gold Cup serves as the definitive competitive bridge between the C.V. Whitney Cup and the U.S. Open Polo Championship. It consistently attracts the most elite polo organizations, internationally renowned players, and top-tier equine athletes.
Partial champions roster Throughout its history, the Gold Cup has been claimed by top-tier sports organizations. White Birch currently holds the all-time record with 12 titles spanning three decades. The following table details champion teams in notable editions, highlighting the elite level of the competition, according to official USPA records and specialized press:
Year Champion Team Ref. 1974 Milwaukee 1995 White Birch 2007 Crab Orchard 2009 Lechuza Caracas 2011 Audi 2012 Valiente 2013 Valiente 2014 Valiente 2015 Audi 2017 Valiente 2018 Valiente 2019 Pilot 2021 Scone 2022 Pilot 2023 Scone 2024 La Dolfina 2025 Park Place 2026 Pilot
See also C.V. Whitney Cup U.S. Open Polo Championship Argentine Open Polo Championship
References