Sultan Of Pahang Considering To Retire From Competitive Polo

PEKAN, Sept 26 (Bernama) -- The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, intends to retire from participating in polo competitions, but will continue to provide support to the Royal Pahang Polo Club.

Al-Sultan Abdullah said that the decision was made after being active in the sport for a long time, while also taking into consideration the persuasion from his children for him to continue playing.

"I am indeed planning to retire, but I do not know, my children are persuading me. I reckon I am already retired and will not participate in competitions anymore. Just giving support and riding a little, occasionally playing polo for a short while, but not entering competitions," His Highness said.

Al-Sultan Abdullah said this when met by Bernama and the Pahang Sultanate media after officiating the Prize Presentation Ceremony of the Royal Pahang Classic Centenary Cup 2026 in conjunction with the 100th Anniversary celebration of the Royal Pahang Polo Club at the Royal Pahang Polo Club here today.

Also in attendance was the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.

Meanwhile, Al-Sultan Abdullah expressed gratitude that the tournament could be concluded following preparations made over the past few years.

"Alhamdulillah, we were able to fulfill our plans. We planned for years, since the 70s, then the 80s, and now 100 years. I am very grateful to have made it to this year and to be able to play with my children," His Highness said.

The Sultan of Pahang stated that the tournament's progress was nevertheless slightly affected by weather conditions, including haze and continuous rain at night, which caused several matches to be postponed.

"Everyone knows we experienced haze. Then the rain did not stop at night. Many matches had to be postponed, but that is simply part of polo. However, everyone is safe, there were no serious injuries, and the horses also look well and without severe injuries," said His Highness.

His Highness also expressed appreciation to all polo fans and the people of Pahang for their continuous support of the Royal Pahang Polo Club and hopes such support will continue in the future.

Meanwhile, the Royal Pahang and Jogo Polo teams were crowned co-champions after drawing 7-7 in the final match of the Royal Pahang Classic Centenary Cup 2026, which took place this afternoon.

The dramatic match also saw the Tengku Mahkota of Pahang, Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, fall while playing alongside the Royal Pahang team in their clash against Jogo Polo.

The prestigious tournament is among the highlight events of the Royal Pahang Polo Club's 100th Anniversary Celebration, gathering polo teams in competition to claim the championship title.

-- BERNAMA