FG Polo produced a commanding performance at the Lahore Polo Club to claim the 49th Aibak Cup, defeating Diamond Paints 7½–4 in a final played before a large Basant crowd. The match combined fast-paced polo with tactical discipline as teams vied for one of Pakistan’s most prestigious polo trophies.
The winning side built its advantage through clinical finishing and strong teamwork. Raja Mikayial Sami led the charge with four crucial goals and finished as the tournament’s top scorer, while Marcos Rivarola supplied a brilliant hat-trick and was instrumental in key moments. FG Polo also benefited from a half-goal handicap edge that added to their final margin.
Diamond Paints mounted a spirited challenge but could not close the gap. Lao Abelenda carried much of the attacking burden with three goals and Mohammad Ali Malik contributed a single strike as the runners-up pushed for a comeback in the later chukkas.
The prize distribution honoured standout performers from the Aibak Cup. Marcos Rivarola was named Most Valuable Player and received a 65-inch QLED TV, while Raja Mikayial Sami collected the top scorer award along with a 55-inch QLED TV. The best playing pony accolade went to Mustaza, owned by Mian Abbas Mukhtar, and the mare was recognised with a 55-inch QLED TV for her agility and stamina.
The ceremony was attended by Ms. Natalie A. Baker, Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy, who praised the quality of play and the festive atmosphere, saying, “It is wonderful to be here at the Lahore Polo Club. Watching such high-quality polo amidst the vibrant Basant festivities has been a truly exhilarating experience.” Other dignitaries present included DWP Group Director Taha Muhammad Naseem, Lahore Polo Club committee members Mohammad Nasir and Raja Amir, Secretary Maj Amjad Ghafoor, and DWP EcoStar Marketing Head Shoaib Younas.
Earlier in the day the subsidiary final delivered its own excitement as BN Polo edged SQ Seagold 8–6, setting the stage for a full day of top-tier action. The successful staging of the Aibak Cup reinforced the tournament’s standing in Pakistan’s polo calendar and provided families and fans with a memorable sporting spectacle.
