Known as the world’s only high-goal tournament on snow, the Snow Polo World Cup in St. Moritz has been running since 1985. Each year, spectators gather around the frozen lake in the mountains to witness majestic snow polo in an atmosphere of friendly competition, not to mention a touch of glitz and glamour.

Snow polo in St. Moritz

The game of polo has existed for about 2.600 years, originating in Ancient Persia. It began to be popular in St. Moritz in the 1880s, however, the first time it was played on ice was in the mid-20th century. Then, 1985 saw the world premiere of a polo tournament on snow on the frozen lake of St. Moritz. Other parts of the world have adopted snow polo, but the Snow Polo World Cup remains the most prestigious event of its kind.

Photo: courtesy of Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz

The background of winter sports in St. Moritz

The alpine town of St. Moritz is one of the most well-known resorts in the world. It has long been associated with elegance, sporting events and superb quality. It is situated at 1.856 metres above sea level, in the stunning lake region of the Upper Engadine. Long before winter tourism took off there, St. Moritz was noted for its mineral springs, which attracted people for around 3.000 years.

Winter sports began to take off in St. Moritz in the late 19th century after British tourists travelled there by horse-drawn sleigh, and spent time skiing, ice skating and playing Bavarian curling. In 1882 the first European Ice Skating Championships were held there. A horse race took place on snow in 1906, and the following year a horse race was held on the frozen lake! Soon, the first curling club, ski school and tobogganing club were established.

In short, the early 20th century saw St. Moritz establish itself as a forerunner for all kinds of winter sports activities. Not only that, but the Olympic Winter Games brought global attention to St. Moritz. The games occurred at difficult moments in history: during the economic crisis at the end of the 1920s, plus three years after the end of the Second World War. They made St. Moritz famous throughout the world as a world-class sporting venue in a spectacular alpine valley.

Photo: courtesy of Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz

Attend the Snow Polo World Cup

Access to the grandstand requires a ticket, and if you have reserved, you can buy a ticket to the Perrier-Jouët Chukker Club, including one glass of free Perrier-Jouët champagne, a warm blanket and canapés. On the other hand, for spectators who wish to view the games from around the perimeter of the snow polo arena, it’s free and always has been! Check out the Snow Polo World Cup website for more information.

Thumb photo: courtesy of Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz