La Natividad was crowned champion of the historic 131º Campeonato Abierto Argentino de Polo, defeating La Dolfina in an intense and thrilling final with a 13-11 scoreline. This clash took place on the iconic Field 1 of the Cathedral of Polo in Palermo, a legendary stage for memorable battles that define the essence of the sport. This year’s final was particularly special, as it featured two teams with a perfect handicap, a rarity that had only occurred once before, in 2009.
The match was graced by the presence of Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, who, accompanied by his sister and Secretary-General of the Presidency, Karina Milei, presented the trophy to the winning team. Milei, a passionate polo fan and admirer of the legendary Adolfo Cambiaso, spent time with players and officials, reinforcing his interest in promoting this iconic sport within the country.
The standout performer of the game was Jeta Castagnola, who shone brightly by scoring nine of La Natividad’s thirteen goals, leading his team with skill and determination. The other goals for the champions came from Facundo Pieres and Pablo Mac Donough, who delivered a solid and cohesive performance. On La Dolfina’s side, Poroto Cambiaso contributed five goals, while his father, Adolfo Cambiaso, and Juanma Nero added four and two goals, respectively.
La Natividad built their victory with intelligence and control, securing a crucial lead during the sixth chukker, which allowed them to handle the final moments with confidence and composure. This triumph reinforces their recent dominance in the tournament, having reached four consecutive finals and claiming their third title in 2024, following victories in 2021 and 2023, both also against La Dolfina. Their only defeat during this period came in 2022, once again against the same rival.
Meanwhile, La Dolfina continues to be a cornerstone in the history of the Argentine Open, participating in 24 of the last 25 finals, with 15 titles and 9 runner-up finishes. Adolfo Cambiaso, at 49 years old, remains a central figure in the polo world, although he left his future in the sport uncertain, stating he would decide later with “a clear head.”
The award ceremony was an emotional moment. Javier Milei not only presented the trophy to Pablo Mac Donough, captain of La Natividad, but also interacted with the players and the crowd, creating a special connection. Later, he shared a photo on social media with Cambiaso, whom he described as “the greatest polo player of all time.”
The 2024 final will be remembered as a showcase of talent and passion, reaffirming the importance of the 131º Campeonato Abierto Argentino de Polo as one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world. Once again, Palermo became the epicenter of a tradition that ties Argentina to its history and love for the sport.
The finalist teams and the progression:
La Natividad:
• Camilo Castagnola 10 (9 goals, five from penalties)
• Facundo Pieres 10 (3 goals, one from a penalty)
• Pablo Mac Donough 10 (1 goal)
• Bartolomé Castagnola (h) 10
Total: 40.
La Dolfina Saudi:
• Adolfo Cambiaso (h) 10 (4 goals, one from a penalty)
• David Stirling (h) 10
• Adolfo Cambiaso (n) 10 (5 goals, three from penalties)
• Juan M. Nero 10 (2 goals)
Total: 40.
Scoring progression:
La Natividad: 1-1, 2-5, 3-5, 4-6, 8-6, 11-6, 12-7, 13-11.
Umpires: Gastón Lucero and Gonzalo López Vargas.
Referee: Matías Baibiene.