Wids by Marta Nicolazzo - Photographs Gabriele Ancillotti

The Figli del Vento Polo Cup returned to enliven the Versilia coast, blending sport, elegance, and social life into an event that marked the season’s opening in Forte dei Marmi. Set against the golden sands of the shoreline, between the sparkle of the still-crystalline sea and the bright days of spring, the fourth edition of the tournament organized by the Polo Club Forte dei Marmi proved a successful and ambitious undertaking. The commitment and vision of its promoters – Susanna Larini (president), Diego Fiorini (vice president), and Matteo Beffa (technical director) – played a crucial role. They worked in synergy with support from the Italian Equestrian Sports Federation, the Municipality of Forte dei Marmi, and Bagno Alpemare, owned by the Bocelli family.

The result was an event capable of bringing major polo back to the seaside through the only Italian tournament played entirely on sand. What left the strongest impression was the atmosphere both on and off the field: dynamic matches made even more compelling by the natural setting and the proximity of the spectators, who could experience every moment of play up close.

Yet the spirit of the event extended far beyond the competition itself, where polo became an occasion for gathering and social exchange. Between pitch-side lunches, sunset aperitifs, convivial moments, and dedicated activities – such as morning horseback training sessions on the playing field – the program also included parties and gala evenings. The traditional “Tanto di Cappello… by Borsalino” competition, honoring Daniela Broch, was won by Ginevra Migliori, who, together with the other participants, brought color and creativity to the closing day, matching the refined style of major international equestrian events.

Numerous distinguished guests attended the tournament. Alongside Andrea Bocelli and Veronica Bocelli were Marcello Lippi, a symbol of Italy’s 2006 World Cup victory; Saturnino, an Italian bassist and composer; artist Emma Ferrer – Audrey Hepburn’s granddaughter; actress Marianella Bargilli with her partner Paolo Bettini, an Olympic and world cycling champion; fashion designers Massimo Rebecchi and Ermanno Scervino; the Buffon family; and Giampaolo Minnucci, longtime driver of Varenne. International entrepreneurs, athletes, models, and entertainment personalities further animated the days by the sea, highlighting the event’s growing appeal. Its importance was also underscored by the recognition of the Italian Equestrian Sports Federation, viewing the tournament as a key chance to promote the discipline and introduce an increasingly broad audience to the world of polo. For Forte Magazine, media partner since the first three editions held in Marina di Pietrasanta, the event confirms a significant path of growth: a project that began almost quietly and now demonstrates all the qualities needed to establish itself as a permanent fixture on the Versilia calendar.

This promising beginning paves the way for future growth, with the hope that the tournament will continue to grow, drawing more participants and spectators, including international visitors. The event fits naturally within Forte dei Marmi’s increasingly broad and diversified tourism offering, extending throughout the year: not only sea and summer, but also sport and culture beyond the traditional season – another expression of the enduring appeal of Forte dei Marmi, a destination capable of surprising visitors season after season.