The 100th edition of Piazza di Siena officially opened with the traditional riders’ parade at the Pincio terrace, launching one of the most prestigious events in international equestrian sport. Tourists, families and horse-riding enthusiasts gathered in Villa Borghese as polo players and mounted Carabinieri crossed the park in a colorful procession leading to the Galoppatoio arena, where the competition will continue through Sunday.
This year’s edition places a strong spotlight on Arena Polo, a faster and more spectacular variation of the sport played in a smaller setting than traditional grass fields. For the first time, Rome is also hosting the European Arena Polo Championship, featuring Italy, England, France and Switzerland. Italy’s squad includes captain Stefano Giansanti and Giordano Flavio Magini, considered one of the country’s leading polo talents.
The opening celebrations will conclude with the free concert “Armonie di Pace,” conducted by Maestro Alvise Casellati and promoted by Intesa Sanpaolo. The event combines music, sport and culture to celebrate a century of one of the world’s most iconic equestrian competitions.