European University Games 2026 in Salerno introduces padel courts and upgrades sports venues

The 2026 European University Games (EUG) in Salerno will feature padel for the first time in the competition’s history. Two panoramic, wall‑free courts and six additional courts with separation have been built specially for the Games at the university campus in Baronissi. Sixteen men’s teams and thirteen women’s teams from universities across Europe will contest the padel tournament from 19‑22 July.

University of Salerno director Gaetano De Stefano highlighted the legacy of the Games, noting that upgraded sports facilities across the province are now more functional and safer. Two emergency operation centres—one on the university campus and a second at the local police headquarters—were set up for the opening ceremony and the event overall. The table‑tennis competition will be held at the PalaSele in Eboli from 18‑22 July, using eight competition areas and six training zones to meet international standards, with athletes from Italian, British, Chinese and other European universities taking part.