Málaga is ready to become the world capital of padel. The Spanish city is hosting the inaugural FISU World University Padel Championship, taking place from July 7 to 11, bringing together university athletes from 20 countries.
Organized by the International Padel Federation (FIP) in collaboration with the University of Málaga, the event is much more than a sporting competition. It represents a unique opportunity for cultural exchange, friendship, and international cooperation among young athletes representing universities from around the world.
The official launch of the 2026 FISU World University Padel Championship, following the official recognition of padel by the International University Sports Federation (FISU), marks a major milestone in the global expansion of the sport and strengthens the partnership between FISU and FIP.
The championship reflects the core values shared by both organizations: excellence, passion and teamwork, while highlighting padel’s ability to unite young people from different cultures and backgrounds through sport.
The Players to Watch
Alongside emerging talents, Spain will welcome players who have already made their mark on the CUPRA FIP Tour.
Top seeds in the men’s draw are Alejandro Jerez Carnero and Férran González Zamorano, joined by strong contenders including Noa Bonnefoy, Michele Brambilla, Alejandro Prados Dávalos, Eneko Arija Ochoa de Alda, Matteo Platania, and Simone Iacovino.
In the women’s competition, all eyes will be on top seeds Laura Luján and Águeda Pérez. Luján currently ranks No. 45 in the FIP Rankings after winning the FIP Gold Abidjan and the FIP Bronze Eidsvoll this season.
Other standout pairs include Ana Domínguez and Ana Sánchez, Francesca Ligotti and Giorgia Rosi, as well as Louise Bahurel and Clara Mansart.
The mixed event will feature leading teams such as Nathan Courrin/Louise Bahurel, Valeria Atencia Basilio/Álvaro Sola, and Puck Bernard/Thomas Panken.
Three Competitions
The championship includes men’s, women’s and mixed competitions, with every draw starting from the Round of 32.
Each delegation may register up to 12 athletes (six men and six women), forming two men’s pairs, two women’s pairs and two mixed pairs.
Following the university championship, Málaga will continue to be the centre of world padel by hosting the Premier Padel Málaga P1 from July 13 to 19, making the city the global home of padel for two consecutive weeks