International Polo Tour Celebrates Florida Polo Season with Star-Studded Event

The annual VIP celebration recognized culture, innovation, and community with a Thailand-inspired theme.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The International Polo Tour (IPT) commemorated the start of Florida's polo season with its annual VIP celebration, held at the equestrian estate of IPT Chairman Tareq Salahi. The event welcomed celebrities, community leaders, and sports enthusiasts, celebrating U.S. and international culture. Guests enjoyed high-quality food and beverages, including a newly-debuted line of tequila, vodka, and rum. The evening also spotlighted the IPT's partnership with the Royal Thai Embassy, which will play a key role in an upcoming Sunset Polo match focused on cultural exchange and unity.

Why it matters

The International Polo Tour event highlights the growing popularity and cultural significance of polo in Florida. As the sport continues to unite diverse communities, the IPT's initiatives aim to further promote appreciation for equestrian traditions, provide educational opportunities, and support charitable causes like We Will Survive Cancer.

The details

The event featured an immersive 'White Lotus/Thailand Casino Spectacular' theme, embracing the IPT's recently-announced partnership with the Royal Thai Embassy. Guests included NFL athletes Tim Johnson and Josh Norman, actor and producer Bruce 'Busta' Soscia, and Hollywood actors Kevin Sorbo and Sam Sorbo. The evening also included luxury raffles and a special announcement about the development of an official indoor arena polo stadium and educational/cultural center in Palm Beach County.

  • The event was held on Friday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Tareq Salahi

The chairman of the International Polo Tour, who hosted the event at his equestrian estate.

Dr. Suriya Chindawongse

The ambassador of the Royal Thai Embassy, whose partnership with the IPT will play a key role in an upcoming Sunset Polo match.

Tim Johnson

An NFL athlete who has previously voiced his support for the IPT and its global initiatives.

Josh Norman

An NFL athlete who has also shown support for the IPT and polo.

Bruce 'Busta' Soscia

An actor and producer known for roles in films such as 'Dog Gone', 'Clean', and 'MobKing'.

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What they’re saying

“I am very grateful for all of the support we have received. This celebration was one we were incredibly excited to bring to life and, as America's 250th birthday approaches, we are honored for the opportunity to express our love for our country and for the centuries of culture and connection that have been built abroad. Polo, as a sport, has unified so many and we will continue sharing that message well into the future.”

— Tareq Salahi, IPT Chairman (bocaratontribune.com)

“This project has been years in the making, and we're excited to finally open it to our supporters, sponsors and founding hospitality suite partners. The future of the International Polo Tour is strong, and this stadium creates a rare opportunity to be part of something lasting — not just to attend, but to belong — while helping elevate Florida's communities through world-class sport & cultural events.”

— Tareq Salahi, IPT Chairman (bocaratontribune.com)

What’s next

The IPT team announced the development of an official indoor arena polo stadium and educational/cultural center in Palm Beach County, which will host professional arena polo matches, provide equestrian instruction, and celebrate Florida's equestrian traditions.

The takeaway

The International Polo Tour's annual celebration showcased the growing cultural significance of polo in Florida, as the sport continues to unite diverse communities and promote appreciation for equestrian traditions, education, and charitable causes.