Kitzbühel Snow Polo World Cup – Austria 2026

Background & History

• Origins: The Kitzbühel Snow Polo World Cup was established in 2003 by Reto and Tito Gaudenzi, renowned polo organizers, as the world’s first snow polo tournament. It started with 4 international teams and 1,000 visitors, transforming the frozen lake in the Tyrolean Alps into a unique venue for this ancient equestrian sport adapted to winter conditions.
• Tradition and Significance: Held annually in January, the event is the oldest and most prestigious snow polo tournament globally, combining high-stakes competition with glamour and alpine scenery. It celebrates polo’s heritage—dating back over 2,000 years—while innovating by playing on snow, attracting elite players, celebrities, and over 15,000 spectators by 2016. The 23rd edition in 2026 underscores its role as a social highlight in Kitzbühel’s winter calendar.
• Growth Over Time: From its inaugural year, the tournament expanded to 8 teams and 15,000 attendees by 2016. It has hosted FIP European Championships (e.g., 2015 in Düsseldorf) and partnerships with events like Miami Beach Polo and St. Moritz Polo. The 2026 edition includes a pre-tournament (Kitzbühel Polo Cup, Jan 8–11) for medium-goal teams, building excitement for the main event.
• Cultural Impact: The festival elevates Kitzbühel’s status as a luxury winter destination, blending sport, fashion, and alpine tradition. It promotes equestrian excellence, with over 120 horses and international players, while supporting local tourism and economy. Sponsored by Bendura Bank since 2003, it fosters global polo networks and has become a symbol of Austrian winter elegance.
• Modern Developments: Recent editions emphasize sustainability (e.g., eco-friendly snow preparation) and digital engagement via social media. The 2025 event featured celebrity appearances and live streaming, with 2026 poised to continue this trend. Organized by Lifestyle Events GmbH and Lifestyle Polo, led by Tito Gaudenzi, it partners with Polo Club Kitzbühel (founded 2016).
• Recognition: Affiliated with the International Polo Federation (FIP) and recognized as the “world’s most prestigious winter polo tournament” by Kitzbühel Tourism. Past winners include teams like Les Lions (France) and Dubai, with players like Thomas Winter (Germany) as icons.

Event Highlights

• Main Activities or Performances:
  • Kitzbühel Polo Cup (Pre-Tournament): Medium-goal competition from January 8–11, 2026, featuring 6 international teams (e.g., Polo Club Kitzbühel with TC Prince Turki Bin Abdul Rahman Al Sudairy +0 KSA and Tommy Ruiz Guinazu +5 ARG; AIX with Liam Savoir +0 MEX; Outdoors; INEOS Grenadier with TC TBD +1 USA and Agustin Kronhaus +5 ARG; Singureni Polo Club with TC Cristina Rosu -1 RO and Pelayo Berazardi +6 ESP; Kitzbühel with TC Katja Grauwiler +1 CH and Adrian Laplacette Jr. +7 ARG). All teams at +8 HCP, matches on snow fields.
  • 23rd Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup: Main tournament January 15–18, 2026, with 8 elite international teams (details TBD, typically from Argentina, UK, UAE, etc.) competing in chukkers (7.5-minute periods) on a snow-covered field. Features high-goal players (up to +10 HCP) and over 120 horses.
  • Matches and Schedule: Daily games starting ~11:00 AM, culminating in finals on January 18. Includes team captain meetings (Jan 15, 5:00 PM at Hotel Kitzhof), player presentations (5:30 PM), and polo team captain dinner (Jan 16, 6:30 PM at Kitzbühel Country Club). Bronze/silver matches and finals with prize-giving.
  • Polo Player’s Gala: Black Tie/Cocktail event on January 17 (8:00 PM), celebrating players and sponsors.
• Special Traditions or Features:
  • Snow Polo Format: Played on a frozen field with snow-adapted rules (shorter chukkers due to footing), combining adrenaline with alpine views of the Wilder Kaiser mountains.
  • VIP Experiences: Exclusive access to hospitality tents with gourmet dining, open bar, and celebrity sightings.
  • Sponsorship Highlights: Bendura Bank as title sponsor since 2003; partners like Engel & Völkers, Betly, and IntoCast.
  • Team Presentations: Pre-event showcases at Hotel Kitzhof, blending sport with social networking.
• Unique Attractions for Visitors:
  • Alpine Backdrop: Matches against snow-capped peaks, offering photo ops and scenic walks.
  • Glamour Element: Attracts celebrities and high society; includes fashion shows and après-polo parties.
  • Family/Intro Events: The pre-tournament introduces medium-goal play, suitable for newcomers.
  • Polo Clinic: Optional introductory sessions for spectators (TBD, ~€50).

Date & Duration

• Dates: January 8–11, 2026 (Kitzbühel Polo Cup Pre-Tournament); January 15–18, 2026 (Main Snow Polo World Cup)
• Duration: 4 days per event (total 8 days across both)
• Opening Hours:
  • Matches: ~11:00 AM–5:00 PM daily (first whistle ~11:45 AM for pre-tournament; similar for main).
  • VIP/Gala: Evenings from 5:00 PM–late (e.g., Jan 15 team meeting 5:00 PM; Jan 17 gala 8:00 PM).
  • Grounds Open: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM for spectators.

Venue / Location

• City: Kitzbühel, Tyrol, Austria
• Main Venue: Kitzbühel Polo Grounds (Münichauer Wiese / Mühlnerfeld), Reith bei Kitzbühel, 6370 Austria
• Notable Areas within Venue:
  • Main Field: Snow polo arena with spectator stands and VIP tents.
  • Hospitality Area: Gourmet tents with views of the Wilder Kaiser mountains.
  • Pony Stables: Over 120 horses; behind-the-scenes access for VIPs.
  • Après-Polo Zone: Adjacent to grounds, with bars and food stalls.
• Google Maps Address: Münichauer Wiese, 6370 Reith bei Kitzbühel, Austria

Ticket Information

• How Tickets Are Sold:
  • Online: kitzbuehelpolo.ticket.io or kitzbuehelpolo.com, starting November 2025.
  • On-Site: At polo grounds box office (January 8–18, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, cash/card).
  • VIP Reservations: Email info@kitzbuehelpolo.com for hospitality packages.
  • General Admission: Free entry to public areas; VIP tents require advance booking.
• Admission Type:
  • Free for general viewing; paid for VIP hospitality and gala events.
• Ticket Pricing (USD):
  • General Admission: $0 (free for all matches and grounds access).
  • VIP Hospitality Tent (Day Pass): $108.00–$216.00 (€100–€200, includes gourmet dining, open bar, premium seating).
  • Full Tournament VIP Pass: $540.00–$1,080.00 (€500–€1,000, for both events, with gala access).
  • Polo Player’s Gala: $270.00–$540.00 (€250–€500, Black Tie event).
  • Group Packages: Custom pricing for 10+; email info@kitzbuehelpolo.com.
• Minimum and Maximum Ticket Pricing:
  • Minimum: $0 (general admission).
  • Maximum: $1,080.00 (full VIP pass).
• Special Seating or VIP Options:
  • VIP Tents: Premium seating with heated lounges, celebrity mingling, and exclusive catering (book via email).
  • Accessible Seating: Wheelchair areas in stands; contact info@kitzbuehelpolo.com.
  • Children Under 12: Free with adult VIP ticket.

Contact Information

• Email:
  • General Inquiries: info@kitzbuehelpolo.com
  • Press: info@kitzbuehelpolo.com (for releases and images)
  • Sponsorships: info@kitzbuehelpolo.com
• Phone: Not listed; email preferred.
• Website: kitzbuehelpolo.com
• Social Media:
  • Instagram: @kitzbuehelpolo
  • Facebook: @SnowPoloKitzbuehel
• Key Staff:
  • Organizer: Lifestyle Events GmbH (Reichshofer Strasse 24, 14195 Berlin, Germany)
  • Event Director: Tito Gaudenzi
  • Host: Polo Club Kitzbühel
• Press/Volunteers:
  • Press: Email info@kitzbuehelpolo.com for accreditation and high-res images.
  • Volunteers: Contact info@kitzbuehelpolo.com (roles in logistics, ushering; applications open fall 2025).
• Note: Response time ~24–48 hours. English, German support.

Cultural Experience

• Traditions:
  • Snow polo, an adaptation of the ancient Persian sport, played on frozen fields since 1985 (St. Moritz origins), with Kitzbühel’s event as a flagship since 2003.
  • Team captain dinners and galas blend equestrian heritage with alpine social customs.
• Music:
  • Live bands and DJs during après-polo, featuring Tyrolean folk and modern pop.
  • Gala events include orchestral performances celebrating polo’s elegance.
• Costumes:
  • Players in traditional polo whites adapted for snow (helmets, knee pads).
  • Spectators: Casual winter attire for grounds; Black Tie/Cocktail for gala.
• Local Customs:
  • Mingling in VIP tents with Glühwein and Austrian fare, reflecting Tyrolean hospitality.
  • Respectful viewing: No field access during matches; photography allowed from stands.

Food & Drinks

• Must-Try Specialties:
  • Wiener Schnitzel: Breaded veal cutlet, served in VIP tents.
  • Käsespätzle: Cheese noodles, a Tyrolean comfort food at grounds stalls.
  • Apfelstrudel: Apple strudel with vanilla sauce, for après-polo.
• Beverage Highlights:
  • Glühwein: Mulled wine, warming during matches.
  • Schnapps: Local fruit brandy, in hospitality areas.
  • Non-Alcoholic: Hot chocolate or alpine herbal teas.

Getting There

• Nearest Airports:
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN): 90 km, 1.5 hours by car ($100–$150) or shuttle ($50–$80).
  • Salzburg Airport (SZG): 100 km, 1.5 hours by car ($120–$180).
  • Munich Airport (MUC): 150 km, 2 hours by car ($150–$250) or train ($40–$60).
• Public Transport:
  • Train: From Innsbruck/Salzburg to Kitzbühel Station (1–1.5 hours, $20–$40, ÖBB app).
  • Bus: From Innsbruck to Kitzbühel (1.5 hours, $15–$25, FlixBus).
  • Shuttle: Festival shuttles from Kitzbühel Station to polo grounds (5 km, $10–$15, book via website).
• Parking:
  • Free parking at polo grounds (Münichauer Wiese); arrive early for spots.
  • Nearby lots in Reith bei Kitzbühel ($5–$10/day).
• Accessibility:
  • Wheelchair-accessible stands and tents; email info@kitzbuehelpolo.com.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury Hotels:
  • Hotel Goldener Adler: Historic, central Kitzbühel, $300–$600/night.
  • Grand Tirolia Kitzbühel: Spa facilities, $250–$500/night.
• Mid-Range Hotels:
  • Hotel Kitzhof: Event host, near polo grounds, $150–$300/night.
  • Hotel Zur Post: Traditional, $120–$250/night.
• Budget Options:
  • Gästehaus Reith: Cozy guesthouse, $80–$150/night.
  • Youth Hostel Kitzbühel: Dorms, $40–$100/night.
• Airbnb and Apartments:
  • Kitzbühel chalets ($100–$300/night); book via kitzbuehel.com.
• Booking Tips:
  • Book 6+ months ahead; use festival partners for discounts.