The Karabair

Karabairin polo

Uzbekistan's national horse breed, brought into modern polo.

A national breed

The Karabair is native to Uzbekistan. It is an ancient breed, shaped over centuries of Central Asian horsemanship and valued for its endurance, agility and courage.

The federation is working to bring Karabair horses into modern polo competition.

Qualities for polo

  • Build

    A compact, muscular frame gives quick acceleration and sharp turns.

  • Temperament

    Calm and fearless in a fast game.

  • Stamina

    Bred for Central Asian terrain, the Karabair has strong stamina, tolerates heat and cold, and has sound hooves that lower the risk of injury in demanding matches.

Heritage through sport

  1. 01

    Ancient roots

    Horseback games have been played in Central Asia since ancient times. Modern polo gives that riding culture an international, standardised form.

  2. 02

    A living tradition

    Training Karabairs for polo helps preserve traditional breeding lines, horsemanship and pastoral knowledge for future generations.

The breed abroad

  1. 01

    International presence

    As a member of FIP, the federation presents Karabair horses at international clinics, exhibition matches and regional tournaments.

  2. 02

    Breeding and sport

    Showing the breed's versatility on the international stage opens opportunities in export, breeding and sport, alongside the established polo pony breeds.

Uzbekistan Polo Federation