Learn the equestrian sport of polo

Polo Match Officials

Umpires

Two mounted Umpires do most of the officiating, with a Referee (called The Third Man) at midfield having the final say in any dispute between the Umpires. With such a large field and the incredible speed of a mounted player in a polo match, a Referee is usually pretty busy.

These 3 Officials (2 Umpires and 1 Referee) are charged with the responsibility of seeing that the game is conducted in accordance with the Rules.

The authority of the Umpires and Referee includes:

  • calling fouls and awarding penalty shots,
  • recommending the suspension of a player whose conduct is not in the best interest of the sport,
  • the power to impose a fine for any misconduct on the field.

In addition to the Umpires, 2 Flagmen, a Timekeeper, and a Scorer assist at all games.