Two cities. One field. A rivalry centuries in the making.
On June 20, Newport, Rhode Island meets Boston, Massachusetts in one of the season’s most anticipated showdowns—a modern polo rivalry with 15 years of history, rooted in a deeper “turf war” that dates back to colonial times. After weeks of tournament play across the Northeast, two formidable teams will advance to the Championship match—each determined to claim regional supremacy for its home city, and an impressive prize money reward.
Adding to the excitement, Newport Mayor Charlie Holder is challenging Boston Mayor Michelle Wu in a friendly wager of—Newport’s iconic lobster rolls against a Boston delicacy of her choosing—raising the stakes in delicious fashion.
The rift between the ‘Birthplace of the American Revolution’ and ‘America’s First Polo Club’ can be traced back to early colonial times when dissidents splintered off from Puritan Boston, by choice or by ex-communication, to seek greater religious freedom in new settlements to the south, affectionately known as Rogue Island.
Newport presently has a slim lead in the rivalry, as the defending champion after last year’s record-setting score of 17-15.
Boston will ride in from the heart of American academia, setting the tone for this year’s Ivy & Linen theme where guests are invited to embrace preppy fashion, campus nostalgia, and polished summer style, with festive refreshments to match. Gates open at 1:00 PM for an afternoon of polo pageantry, school spirit, and timeless tradition. Learn more about Stella Artois’ Best in Show themes.
Join us for Newport vs. Boston—where tradition runs deep, the stakes are delicious, and the rivalry is as vibrant as ever.