Polo Authorities Ban Genetically Modified Ponies to Preserve Breeding Traditions

Gene Editing in Sports: A Controversial Frontier

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has long prohibited gene doping in human athletes, defining it as "the non-therapeutic use of genes, genetic elements and/or cells that have the capacity to enhance athletic performance." The agency also bans gene editing outright, even if such enhancements remain unjustifiably prohibited in elite sports.

Polo’s Stance on Genetically Enhanced Horses

The International Equestrian Federation (IEF) has taken a firm position: "The use on, or administration or application to, any Horse of Gene Editing or Genome Editing is prohibited at all times."

The Argentine Polo Association (APA) has followed suit, imposing a strict ban on genetically modified or edited polo ponies. In an official statement, the APA declared: "The use of genetically manipulated or edited horses will not be permitted by the APA for polo, in any official or unofficial tournament."

Why the Ban? Preserving the 'Magic of Breeding'

APA President Benjamin Araya told Reuters that gene editing "takes away the charm, this takes away the magic of breeding." The APA’s decision targets horses bred by Kheiron Biotech, a Buenos Aires-based company specializing in horse cloning. In 2025, Kheiron produced approximately 400 clones, including five modified clones of the award-winning mare Polo Pureza ("Polo Purity" in English).

Researchers at Kheiron edited these clones to suppress the myostatin gene, which naturally limits muscle growth. The goal was to create horses with stronger muscles and greater explosive speed—traits highly desirable in polo ponies.

The Role of Cloning in Argentine Polo

While gene editing faces opposition, cloning has been widely accepted in Argentine polo. More than 60% of Argentine polo horses are now produced via embryo transfer, a process in which embryos are flushed from high-value mares and implanted in surrogate broodmares. This allows mares to continue competing while producing multiple foals annually without carrying pregnancies.

As a result, Argentine polo horses are in high demand internationally. Last year alone, around 2,400 polo horses were exported abroad.

Cloning’s Acceptance in Polo

The International Equestrian Federation lifted its ban on cloned horses and their offspring in sanctioned competitions in 2012. Argentine polo legend Adolfo Cambiaso was an early adopter, famously riding six different clones of his favorite mare, Dolfina Cuartetera, in a single match.

Clearly, cloning does not threaten the integrity of polo, as sports rules are adaptable to scientific advancements while maintaining transparency and fair play.

Future of Genetically Enhanced Horses in Polo

The Argentine Polo Pony Breeders Association plans to monitor the progress of enhanced clones for the next four or five years before deciding whether they can be officially registered as polo ponies.

Balancing Innovation and Welfare

Sports officials argue that the best way to mitigate risks—both to humans and horses—from enhancements is to bring their use into the open. This approach would allow enhancements to occur under medical oversight and with sound research, ensuring safety and fairness.