Cartier Queen’s Cup 2026: Another Unforgettable Chapter in English Polo
The 2026 Cartier Queen’s Cup once again delivered everything that makes high-goal polo one of the most exciting sports in the world. From the opening games in May through to a dramatic final at Guards Polo Club, the tournament showcased world-class players, rising young talent, and some of the closest matches seen all season.
With 18 teams competing for one of the most prestigious trophies in polo, the road to the final was anything but straightforward. Every game carried significance, with established stars and emerging players battling for a place in polo history.
Aureus and Balanz Capital Rise Above the Rest
After weeks of competition, Aureus and Balanz Capital emerged as the two strongest teams of the tournament. Both sides fought through intense knockout matches and dramatic semi-finals, with each securing their place in the final after extra-chukka victories.
Aureus impressed throughout the tournament with a balanced lineup featuring Jake Coventry, Mark Tomlinson, Diego Cavanagh and Teodoro Lacau. The team combined experience with youthful energy and consistently found ways to win under pressure.
Balanz Capital entered the final unbeaten, led by an exceptional combination of Camilo Castagnola, Lorenzo Chavanne, Ned Hine and Claudio Porcel. Their disciplined team play and ability to deliver in key moments made them one of the standout teams of the season.
The Breakthrough of Jake Coventry
One of the stories of the tournament was the emergence of Jake Coventry. The young British player played a crucial role in Aureus' run to the final, producing decisive moments when his team needed them most.
In the quarter-finals he delivered the assist for the winning goal, while in the semi-final he stepped up again by scoring the winning goal in the extra chukka. Performances like these confirmed his reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in British polo.
Throughout the tournament, Jake could be seen wearing Krono Polo High Goal Trousers and Krono Polo Gloves, proving their performance at the very highest level of the game.
Ned Hine Continues His Rise
For Krono Polo, another highlight was watching long-time ambassador Ned Hine reach his first Cartier Queen’s Cup final with Balanz Capital.
Ned has continued to establish himself as one of Britain's leading professionals, competing alongside some of the world's best players and playing a key role in Balanz Capital's unbeaten run to the final. His consistency, work rate and understanding of the game were evident throughout the tournament.
Seeing ambassadors competing on both sides of the final was a proud moment for everyone at Krono Polo.
Krono Polo Across the Queen’s Cup
The Queen’s Cup once again demonstrated the trust that top professionals place in Krono Polo equipment.
From High Goal Gloves and High Goal Trousers to our safety glasses, Krono Polo products were worn by players competing at the very highest level of the sport. Watching our products perform under the pressure of 22-goal polo is the best possible endorsement of the work that goes into developing every item we make.
Looking Ahead
As the Queen’s Cup concludes, attention now turns towards the rest of the English high-goal season and the Gold Cup.
The 2026 tournament reminded everyone why the Queen’s Cup remains one of the most respected trophies in world polo. Incredible horses, outstanding players, dramatic finishes and a new generation of talent stepping forward ensured another memorable edition.
Congratulations to all teams, players, grooms, sponsors and organisers who made this year's tournament such a success.
We look forward to seeing what the rest of the season has in store.
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