September 23rd, 2024: Chantilly Polo Club, France – The 24th edition of the Barnes Open de France concluded in spectacular fashion at the Chantilly Polo Club, with an exciting final where the prestigious Standing Rock Fair Play Award was presented to the Mungo Polo Team. This award, a symbol of excellence in sportsmanship and integrity, was given to Mungo, who impressed with their commitment to fair play throughout the tournament, even in the face of intense competition.
The men’s final saw the young French team, Mungo, square off against Argentina’s formidable La Fija Sandbox. Mungo, known for their strong form since the Deauville Silver Cup, had an impressive start, leading 10-8 by the fourth chukker. However, an injury to Fran Elizalde and a decisive substitution by La Fija Sandbox allowed the Argentinian team to mount a 4-0 comeback in the final chukker, ultimately claiming the title in their third participation.
Despite finishing as runners-up, Mungo earned praise not only for their tenacity but also for the exemplary sportsmanship that earned them the Standing Rock Fair Play Award. This award, initiated by the Swiss Philipp Müller and his Polo Team Standing Rock, recognizes teams that uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship, respect, and care for horses.
Peter Wright, Chief Umpire of the Open de France, highlighted the significance of Mungo’s achievement, stating: “I would like to thank Philipp Müller and Standing Rock for providing The Fair Play Award to Chantilly Polo Club for the 16 goal French Open. In a competitive environment such as polo, winning at all costs has become something that we see all too often. It was therefore gratifying to see that The Mungo Polo Team, who played the whole tournament with outstanding sportsmanship, reach the final and be the deserved recipient of the award.”
As the Open de France concludes, the Fair Play Award stands as a testament to the values of respect and sportsmanship that continue to inspire the global polo community.