Padel experiences rapid growth in France

Padel is rapidly becoming the fastest-growing sport in France. According to data from the French Tennis Federation (FFT), the number of padel courts rose by 41.2% in one year, reaching 4,520 by September 2026. The number of clubs offering the sport also increased by 31%, totaling 1,348 structures. There are currently approximately 850,000 practitioners, including 150,500 licensed players, representing a 43.3% increase compared to late 2025.

The sport's popularity is attributed to its accessibility, social format, and the ability to play year-round in covered courts. Specialized operators like 4PADEL are expanding, with plans to open or enlarge 12 sites in 2026.

Broadly, sports participation in France remains high. Following the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the 119 federations approved by the Ministry of Sports issued 17.4 million annual licenses in 2025, a 1.7% increase from the previous year. While licensing figures do not capture all recreational activities, they indicate a sustained interest in organized sports across various disciplines.