The Duke of Sussex participates in the Sentebale ISPS Handa Polo Cup at the Singapore Polo Club
The Sentebale ISPS Handa Polo Cup is a prominent event held at the Singapore Polo Club, serving as the cornerstone fundraiser for Sentebale. This charity was founded in 2006 by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho with a mission to support children in Africa who face life-changing circumstances. The stakes of the event go beyond sport; it is a crucial moment to raise awareness and funds that empower Sentebale to deliver vital programs, resources, and hope to young people across the continent.
On the field, the Duke of Sussex shared the spotlight with a trusted ally in the realm of philanthropy. Ignacio Figueras, a longtime Sentebale Ambassador and a seasoned professional polo player, captained the Singapore Polo Club’s team while Prince Harry competed for the Royal Salute Sentebale squad. The pairing highlighted a strong working relationship between champions of sport and champions of charity, underscoring how sport can amplify humanitarian work.
The two friends first crossed paths at a charitable match organized for Sentebale back in 2007. That encounter laid the groundwork for a sustained collaboration that has supported Sentebale’s efforts across multiple seasons and events. Their shared commitment to the charity speaks to a broader ethos: using sports platforms to mobilize communities, attract donors, and inspire volunteers to rally around a cause that has tangible, positive outcomes for children and their families.
Earlier iterations of the event framed it as not just a display of polo prowess but as a catalyst for ongoing social impact. The compilation of matches, fundraising activities, and donor engagement efforts are designed to ensure Sentebale can deliver programs that address health, education, and psychosocial support for vulnerable youth. The involvement of high-profile figures helps to draw attention from diverse audiences, expanding awareness and increasing the resources available to Sentebale’s work in Lesotho and neighboring regions.
From a broader perspective, the Sentebale Polo Cup embodies the intersection of sport, charity, and international development. It demonstrates how voluntary leadership partners can mobilize global audiences to support children who face poverty, illness, displacement, and social stigma. The event’s enduring popularity reflects a shared belief that every child deserves a chance to grow, learn, and thrive with dignity. By bringing together athletes, ambassadors, and supporters, the cup contributes to long-term outcomes that extend beyond the polo field into classrooms, clinics, and community centers where Sentebale operates.
In practical terms, the funds raised through this cup fund Sentebale’s programs across southern Africa. Projects target education and health support, livelihoods, psychological well-being, and resilience-building initiatives for children and youth affected by HIV, poverty, or difficult life circumstances. The charity’s work is rooted in community-led approaches that respect local cultures and empower young people to participate in decisions about their own futures. The annual polo match thus acts as a focal point for donors to learn about the on-the-ground realities faced by Sentebale’s beneficiaries and to contribute in meaningful ways.
Observing the event reveals a blend of athletic precision and heartfelt advocacy. Players bring years of experience to the field, while ambassadors share personal connections to Sentebale’s mission. The collaboration extends beyond the match itself to fundraising galas, auction events, and outreach campaigns that keep the momentum going long after the final whistle. In this way, the Sentebale ISPS Handa Polo Cup remains more than a charity event; it is a sustained commitment to improving the lives of Africa’s children through compassion, collaboration, and community action.
The ongoing narrative surrounding the cup emphasizes the importance of consistency and momentum. Regular supporters understand that progress in humanitarian work is incremental and cumulative, built through steady engagement, transparent reporting, and demonstrable outcomes. The stories told by Sentebale’s beneficiaries—told through updates, testimonials, and on-the-ground impact reports—illustrate how participation in the cup translates into real-world change. This transparent approach helps secure continued trust from donors and partners who want to see that their generosity yields tangible benefi.ts for young people in need.
Ultimately, the Sentebale ISPS Handa Polo Cup stands as a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when sport intersects with social purpose. It showcases leadership, generosity, and the belief that children across Africa deserve opportunities to grow, learn, and realize their potential. The Duke of Sussex and Ignacio Figueras, along with many supporters, continue to champion this mission, mobilizing communities and sustaining programs that uplift the next generation.