Introduction
The Argentine Open in Palermo is not just another tournament—it’s the benchmark of high-goal polo, a stage where legacy meets ambition. With the 2025 edition on the horizon, it’s time to look at the event’s storied past and understand how La Natividad La Dolfina, under the leadership of Bartolomé “Lolo” Castagnola, is positioning itself to leave a mark.
The Origin & Prestige of Palermo
The tournament known today as the Argentine Open of Polo traces its roots back to 1893. Back then it was run under the banner “River Plate Polo Championship”. Since 1923 it has been organised by the Asociación Argentina de Polo and is held annually at the iconic Campo Argentino de Polo in the Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires. The venue has come to be known as the “Cathedral of Polo.”
Over its long history the event has become the peak of the Argentine Triple Crown (alongside the Hurlingham and Tortugas Opens). Thousands of spectators, local and international, travel each year to witness the best players, the finest ponies, and the highest level of competition in the sport.
Lolo Castagnola & the Castagnola Brothers: Building the Legacy
Bartolomé “Lolo” Castagnola, now an icon of Argentine polo, has a track record of success that spans decades. While many sources list his personal Palermo titles, for the purpose of this blog it’s clear: under his direction the La Natividad brand has grown into a force at Palermo. (La Natividad Polo)
His sons, Camilo “Jeta” Castagnola and Bartolomé “Barto” Castagnola (h), have emerged as top-level players, carrying forward the family name on the biggest stage. Together with Lolo they represent a blend of tradition, vision and performance.
In 2021 La Natividad claimed the Argentine Open title, followed by further wins in 2023 and 2024 — proof that the team has matured, refined, and made Palermo their priority.
What Makes Palermo Special
Elevated level of play – The tournament requires high-goal teams (28–40 handicap) and invites only the best to compete.
Historic venue – The Campo Argentino de Polo has hosted the event for nearly a century and a half; it’s a landmark in the sport.
Global audience – Players, owners, fans and spectators from across the world attend, making Palermo a global polo destination.
Cultural impact – The event blends sport, society and lifestyle — from the match itself to the hospitality, fashion and experiences around it.
La Natividad’s Path at Palermo
La Natividad’s recent achievements at Palermo mark a shift in the power dynamics of the tournament. The 2021 title (15–13 vs. La Dolfina) set the tone, followed by a commanding 2023 win (14–10 vs. La Dolfina) and the 2024 final (13–11 vs. La Dolfina) to secure a third crown. Under Lolo’s guidance and with Jeta & Barto leading on the field, the team has combined youth, skill, and legacy to thrive. As the 2025 season approaches — particularly with the formation of La Natividad La Dolfina — Palermo looms as the ultimate proving ground.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With the 2025 Argentine Open just around the corner, La Natividad is not just preparing to participate — they’re preparing to dominate. The stakes are high: victory at Palermo would continue to build their legacy and reinforce their leadership in high-goal polo.
For fans, for players, for the team and for the brand of La Natividad Polo, Palermo is the moment where identity meets ambition.
Conclusion
The Argentine Open in Palermo encapsulates everything that makes polo great: history, competition, horses, players, and a global audience. And for La Natividad — guided by Lolo and led by the Castagnola brothers — it offers an opportunity to define an era.
As the countdown to December begins, every pass, every goal and every moment on that historic turf will matter. Palermo isn’t just a tournament. For La Natividad it’s a statement.
Order the Official Team Jersey for the 2025 season and wear the new era of La Natividad with pride.
