POLO 2026 A new partnership will enhance facility management and hospitality services at the National Polo Center this season.
NEW FACILITY PARTNER TOPS CHANGES AT NPC AS 2026 SEASON GETS UNDERWAY The 2026 high-goal polo season is now underway at the National Polo CenterWellington, and changes are now in place to upgrade facility management and hospitality services at the iconic venue. The international firm ISS and the United States Polo Association recently entered into a multi-year partnership for integrated facility management and hospitality services at NPC. ISS North America will provide facility management, cleaning, and food and beverage services, and also manage club operations. The National Polo Center, the epicenter for polo in the United States, is a multi-dimensional property featuring six championship fields, two restaurants and the Pavilion event space. NPC is also home to the Polo Club, a membership organization for polo enthusiasts. The USPA will continue to
internally manage security, grounds, stables and polo operations. “The National Polo Center is an iconic destination that offers unrivaled experiences for players, teams, guests, club members and the entire polo community. In partnering with ISS, we ensure that the property continues to operate as a world-class facility and sets a next-level standard for hospitality in sports venues throughout the United States,” USPA Chair Stewart Armstrong said. Guckenheimer, ISS North America’s culinary service brand and a premier provider of dining and catering experiences in commercial facilities, will assume responsibility for dining and related services at NPC. Known for its commitment to nutritious, chef-crafted food, sustainability and welcoming, inclusive environments, Guckenheimer will enhance and update the menus
and guest experience in the 7th Chukker and Mallet Grille restaurants, at catered and special events, and in match spaces. Leading the ISS team is Xavier Roca, the new general manager and a 25-year veteran of the hospitality and food and beverage industries, including management positions at Delta Airlines and the Ritz-Carlton. Rene van Camp, chief hospitality officer, will also play an ongoing role as ISS and Guckenheimer inject a new level of hospitality at NPC. “World-class event spaces require world-class facilities partners to support them. We are excited to be the exclusive integrated facilities management partner of the renowned United States Polo Association at the National Polo Center,” ISS CEO & President/ Americas Steven Quick said. “Our focus on hospitality as the driver behind everything we do ensures that guests, WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE | January 2026 43