ICMG and FIP announce official inclusion of Padel in the 20th Mediterranean Games Taranto 2026

The International Committee of the Mediterranean Games (ICMG) and the International Padel Federation (FIP) are pleased to announce the official recognition of Padel and its inclusion in the core programme of the 20th edition of the Mediterranean Games, set to take place in Taranto, Italy, from 21 August to 3 September 2026.

This decision follows extensive consultation and a comprehensive evaluation of Padel’s development and impact in the Mediterranean region. The sport’s rapid growth and widespread popularity, alongside ICMG’s commitment to modernizing the Games’ sports programme, have driven this inclusion.

Padel has established itself as one of the most popular sports in Mediterranean countries, attracting players of all ages and genders. Across the 26 participating nations, there are more than 32,000 padel courts and over 9.5 million active players. Notably, nearly 50% of the world’s padel clubs and courts are located in these countries, and 51% of athletes in the FIP World Ranking come from Mediterranean nations.

ICMG and FIP are already collaborating with the Organising Committee of Taranto 2026 to deliver a high-quality competition in one of the most iconic locations in Italy’s Puglia region. The Padel tournament will be open to all National Olympic Committees (NOCs), with each nation eligible to enter a maximum of two men’s pairs, two women’s pairs, and one mixed pair. The competition is expected to take place over 5–7 days, with exact dates to be confirmed in due course. The event will count on the participation of top athletes from the Mediterranean region.

Davide Tizzano, President of ICMG, expressed his enthusiasm for Padel’s inclusion, stating: “Padel reflects our Mediterranean fundamental principles and emotions: it is a sport that encompasses passion, devotion, sportsmanship and innovation. We are thrilled to welcome this amazing Sport in our Mediterranean Family and celebrate together the 20th edition of our Games, with the participation of the best Padel Athletes of our region”.

Luigi Carraro, President of FIP, stated: “We are honored and excited for the recognition by the ICMG, whom I warmly thank on behalf of the entire Padel community. Following our participation in the European Games 2023, this marks another significant milestone for our sport in a major multi-sport event. FIP and ICMG share core values— inclusion, socialization, fair play, cultural exchange, and a strong focus on future generations”.

ICMG and FIP will soon formalize their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding, outlining future initiatives and ensuring Padel’s inclusion in both the Mediterranean Games and the Mediterranean Beach Games, scheduled for 2027 in Portimão & Lagoa, Portugal.