Social Life5 min readUpdated 2026-04-12

Sports Clubs for British Expats in Buenos Aires: Cricket, Rugby, and More

Cricket, rugby, polo, field hockey — Buenos Aires has active sports clubs with British expat communities. Here's where to find them.

Rosie CarterWriter · Palermo, Buenos Aires

Argentina's sporting DNA is more British than most people realise. The country's first rugby clubs, cricket clubs, and polo clubs were founded by British immigrants in the nineteenth century. Many of these institutions still exist, still operate, and still welcome British arrivals.

Cricket

Buenos Aires Cricket Association (BACA): The governing body for club cricket in the capital. Several clubs compete in the BACA league system, playing on weekend. Standards range from social cricket to competitive club cricket.

The most active clubs for expats:

Belgrano Athletic Club: Has a long-standing cricket section. Social and competitive matches.
Lomas Athletic Club (southern suburbs): Historic, good facilities.
Hurlingham Club: The prestige option. Beautiful ground, strong club history.

Season in Argentina runs year-round, which is a novelty for those used to a British summer season.

Rugby

Argentine rugby has become a world-class sport — the Pumas regularly compete at the highest international level. The club scene is extensive and welcoming.

Belgrano Athletic Club: Probably the most British-feeling rugby club in Buenos Aires. Founded in 1896.

San Isidro Club (SIC): One of the premier clubs in Argentina, in the northern suburbs. Serious rugby but with social sections for all levels.

Club Atlético San Isidro (CASI): Another northern suburbs institution with strong British heritage.

Most clubs welcome visiting players and expats. Turn up on a Saturday, introduce yourself, and you'll be offered a trial. Argentine rugby culture is warm and inclusive at club level.

Polo

Argentina is the world capital of polo. Hurlingham Club, San Jorge (near Córdoba), and dozens of estancias outside Buenos Aires offer polo experiences.

For serious players, contact the Asociación Argentina de Polo — they can connect you with clubs that welcome international members.

For beginners or occasional players, several estancias near Buenos Aires offer polo lessons (USD 80-150 per hour) as a day activity.

Field hockey

Argentina's women's national hockey team (Las Leonas) and men's team are world-class, which reflects the depth of the club game. Several Buenos Aires clubs have hockey sections with British expat players. The Lawn Tennis Club and Belgrano Athletic both have active sections.

General sports clubs

Hurlingham Club: The mother of all British-Argentine sports clubs. Tennis, polo, cricket, golf, swimming. Founded 1888. Membership is application-based and carries a waiting list in some categories. Worth investigating if sport is a priority.

Club de Regatas (Tigre): Rowing and water sports club with a long tradition. Accessible from northern Buenos Aires.

Finding what's available

The British and Commonwealth Association (BCA) maintains contact with all the main British-heritage sports clubs and can make introductions. It's the fastest route to finding out what's currently active and welcoming new members.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play cricket in Buenos Aires?

Yes — the Buenos Aires Cricket Association runs a league with multiple clubs. Belgrano Athletic Club and Hurlingham Club are the most accessible for British expats.

Where can I play rugby in Buenos Aires?

Belgrano Athletic Club has the strongest British connection. San Isidro Club and CASI are also strong options in the northern suburbs. Most clubs welcome visiting players.

Does Hurlingham Club still exist in Buenos Aires?

Yes — founded in 1888, it's still active with polo, tennis, cricket, swimming, and golf. Application-based membership with a waiting list for some categories.