Divot
Last updated: August 2026
In the Rulebook
Where “Divot” appears in the official rules of the sport, quoted verbatim.
USPA — United States Polo Association
“The ball lands on a divot and bounces to the side. Red, previously out of the play, may now meet the ball fairly and assume the Right of Way. Blue can check and turn to remain safely out of Red's new path, but elects to ride through so as to be better positioned to defend Red's run down the arena. Foul on Blue for not taking the most immediate exit from the old Right of Way. Blue flips the ball to the side under Red's mount.”
“RIGHT OF WAY d...EXAMPLES: Red hits the ball forward and it rebounds off a divot toward Blue. Although Blue can meet the ball directly, and now has the ROW, he must give Red an opportunity to clear the way. Blue controls the ball and hits toward goal, changing the LOB. Red is positioned ahead of Blue and is across the new LOB. Red must be given the chance to clear the new ROW and Blue may not ride into him claiming a foul. Red rides to the ball pursued closely by Blue.”
Excerpts quoted from the official rulebooks of the Hurlingham Polo Association, the United States Polo Association and the Federation of International Polo. Rules change between seasons — always check the linked source for the current wording.
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