Island Polo Club Malta – Where passion for polo meets the beauty of the Mediterranean. Established in January 2015 by Steve Vassallo and affiliated with the Hurlingham Polo Association as overseas arena polo club.
Nestled on the sunlit Mediterranean island of Malta, Island Polo Club offers a unique polo experience for players of all levels. With a mission to make polo accessible to everyone, Island Polo Club is the perfect destination to learn, practice, and enjoy the thrilling sport of polo in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Island Polo Club is based at Montekristo Estate, a location that blends traditional Maltese architecture with scenic countryside views in the southern half of the island. The club‘s founder, Steve Vassallo, brings nearly 40 years of polo experience, having represented Malta in tournaments across the globe. His dedication to the sport and passion for teaching have made Island Polo a welcoming place for equestrian enthusiasts, seasoned players, and newcomers alike—welcoming non-members and international visitors who wish to experience the thrill of the Sport of Kings. The club runs chukkas four times a week, offering a vibrant schedule that caters to various playing levels. The instructional chukkas provide the perfect opportunity for those looking to learn the game or refine their skills in a supportive environment. For more tailored coaching, it is possible to book lessons and dedicated training days to help players progress at their own pace. There are two arenas available; a big outside arena is used for chukkas and tournaments, while the smaller, roofed arena is ideal for lessons and training sessions. 300 days of sunshine allow you to play nearly every day.
The outdoor arena features floodlights, offering the opportunity to enjoy evening chukkas.
The club takes pride in its diverse community of members, ranging from high school students to seasoned players, representing many different countries. United by their passion for polo and horsemanship, the 40-50 active members share a love for the sport that transcends borders and generations. The club‘s primary focus is rent-to-play, providing a range of well-trained ponies for every level of rider—whether you‘re a confident rider or stepping into the stirrups for the first time. Their season runs from September to end of June, with practice sessions during the summer months. The focus at Island Polo Club is more than just polo—it’s about camaraderie and creating lasting memories and friendships. After chukkas, the players often gather at the Montekristo Brewery to unwind with a drink or a meal. The estate also offers a gym with indoor pool and restaurants, making it a wonderful place to enjoy both sport and social events. Malta is a hidden gem, a unique destination for polo that continues to shine brighter each year. With a passionate and ever-growing polo community, the club is committed to constantly improving and expanding the sport on the island. Stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving spots make it a dream destination for those who love the sea, while sailing offers the perfect way to explore
the coastline.
Beyond the water, Malta is rich in history, with centuries-old architecture, fascinating cultural sites, and a vibrant mix of influences from across the Mediterranean. Food lovers will enjoy an incredible selection of restaurants, from traditional Maltese cuisine to international fine dining. And when the sun sets, the island comes alive with an exciting nightlife scene, offering everything from relaxed seaside bars to lively clubs.
Thanks to its small size, everything is just a short distance away, meaning you can easily combine a morning of polo with an afternoon at the beach or a night out in the city. Whether you’re here for sport, relaxation, or adventure, Malta offers an unforgettable experience that never gets boring!
For a glimpse into the vibrant polo community, beautiful ponies, and what your first lesson will look like, follow Island Polo Club Malta on Instagram and Facebook.
Come and be part of the Island Polo Club family—where passion for polo meets
Maltese hospitality.
By Josephin Lorenz
Photography by Aldo Scicluna

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