After 12 Years - Gilgit-Baltistan Defeats Chitral 6-5 to Win Shandur Polo Festival 2026

12-Year Drought Ends as Gilgit-Baltistan Clinches Shandur Polo Title

SHANDUR: Gilgit-Baltistan emerged victorious in the Shandur Polo Festival 2026, defeating arch-rivals Chitral 6-5 in a thrilling final at the world’s highest polo ground and ending a 12-year wait for a championship win over Chitral.

The highly anticipated contest drew thousands of spectators and lived up to expectations as both teams delivered a fast-paced and fiercely competitive performance. The match remained closely contested throughout, with neither side willing to concede ground.

Gilgit-Baltistan managed to maintain a slender one-goal lead by the end of regulation time, securing the prestigious Shandur Trophy after a hard-fought battle. The victory marked Gilgit-Baltistan’s first triumph against Chitral in a Shandur Polo Festival final in nearly 12 years.

The win sparked jubilant celebrations among players, officials, and supporters from Gilgit-Baltistan, while the match once again highlighted the rich sporting rivalry and cultural significance of the annual Shandur Polo Festival.

SHARE THIS