The District Cup Unveils Landmark Partnerships and Expanded Vision for the 8th Polo on The Mall as America Celebrates Its 250th Anniversary
~ A celebration of sport, equestrian athletes, Polo heritage, and community impact in the heart of the Nation's Capital — honoring America's 250th Birthday ~
Washington, D.C. — Polo on the Mall returns on Saturday, June 13, 2026, as The District Cup hosts its 8th annual charity tournament. In this semiquincentennial year, marking 250 years since the founding of the United States, the event takes on historic significance, uniting diplomats, lawmakers, business leaders, and young professionals for a day of sport, culture, and philanthropy.
Since its founding, The District Cup has raised over $500,000 for nonprofits and generated more than $6 million in local economic impact. This year's The World Rides to The Mall: Polo Passport Celebrates America's 250th theme invites guests to explore culturally inspired pavilions alongside embassies and partners. Six national teams will compete for Washington's Polo Triple Crown: the Washington Cup, the Cultural Polo Cup, and the District Cup Trophy.
"We are thrilled to continue the proud tradition of Polo on the National Mall and deepen the impact of our Polo scholarship program," said Dario Sotomayor, Co-Founder of The District Cup. "As our nation celebrates 250 years of history and progress, we are more excited than ever to carry that mission forward."
The 2026 edition is proud to announce America250, Events DC, and the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United States among its distinguished partners and sponsors.
"The District Cup showcases Washington, D.C. as a premier global destination and the Sports Capital," said Angie M. Gates, President and CEO of Events DC. "This event is a testament to how sports, culture, and community come together to inspire connection and lasting memories for residents, tourists and guests."
"As Washington, D.C. stands at the heart of America's 250th anniversary, this event exemplifies friendship, heritage, and diplomacy through sport. We are proud to stand alongside The District Cup on the iconic National Mall." — Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
About The District Cup: Polo has been played on the National Mall since the early 1900s. The District Cup honors that tradition while building community and supporting local causes. Learn more atwww.thedistrictcup.com.
About America250: America250 leads the national commemoration of America's Semiquincentennial — inspiring Americans to reflect on our past, renew our commitment to democracy, and celebrate the resilience of the United States. Learn more atwww.america250.org.
About Events DC: Events DC is the official convention and sports authority of Washington, D.C., creating unique experiences that result in jobs, economic impact, and lasting memories for residents, tourists, and guests. As the official host for the Nation's Capital, Events DC showcases Washington, D.C. as a world-class destination and is the official one-stop-shop for hosting conventions, entertainment, sporting, and cultural events in the nation's capital. Learn more at www.eventsdc.com.
