Padel, once a sporting trend and now a true global passion, is knocking louder and louder at the doors of Olympus. With millions of players, a spectacular professional circuit, and unstoppable growth, the question is no longer “if” but “when” we’ll see the glass courts under the five Olympic rings. But what, concretely, is still missing to turn this dream into reality? The journey, though well underway, still requires overcoming several hurdles set by the strict criteria of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Requirements Already Met
Padel approaches the Olympic commission with several strong cards in hand. These are the fundamental requirements it has already fulfilled, building a solid foundation for its candidacy.
- Recognized International Federation The first, essential step has been taken. Padel is governed by a single global body, the International Padel Federation (FIP), which has been fully recognized by the IOC. This ensures a worldwide governance structure and a unified interlocutor.
- Compliance with Anti-Doping Regulations The FIP adheres to the World Anti-Doping Code (WADA). A non-negotiable requirement for Olympic inclusion, this commitment guarantees clean sport.
- Popularity and Youth Appeal Dynamic, social, and easy to understand, padel has enormous appeal, particularly among younger generations. This factor is crucial for the IOC, which constantly seeks to renew and expand its audience.
- Gender Equality The sport is a model of inclusivity, played equally by men and women at all levels, from grassroots to elite. With top-level circuits for both categories, padel fully aligns with the IOC’s push for gender parity.
- Proven Track Record in Multisport Events Padel’s successful inclusion in high-profile events such as the 2023 European Games demonstrated its ability to fit seamlessly into an Olympic setting, strengthening its candidacy.
The Remaining Obstacles: The Final Stretch Toward the Games
Despite these strong foundations, one major obstacle still lies in the way of Olympic inclusion: global reach.
- Worldwide Geographical Spread This remains the biggest challenge. To be admitted into the Olympic program, a men’s sport must be practiced in at least 75 countries across 4 continents, while for women’s sports the threshold is 40 countries and 3 continents. Although padel is growing at a remarkable pace, the number of active national federations affiliated with the FIP has not yet reached these levels. It’s now a race against time to promote the sport in new countries and continents.
- Structural Consolidation Although the recent divisions in the professional circuits have been overcome, padel must continue to demonstrate stability and long-term competitive tradition. The IOC favors sports with a history of solid governance and unity.
Conclusion
The road to Olympic recognition for padel is clear and well-mapped. The key elements—appeal, governance, and compliance—are already in place. The final and most crucial effort must focus on geographic expansion to meet the IOC’s numerical criteria.
The realistic target, shared by many insiders, is the Brisbane 2032 Games. By then, the global padel movement will likely have had enough time to bridge the gap and present an unassailable candidacy, ready at last to claim its spot on the Olympic stage.
