On the occasion of the second edition of the Padel Reference All Star organized at Padel Touch Bordeaux, Eric Pottier, co-founder of the World Padel Quest, spoke about the rise of the amateur circuit that he helped to launch, but also about a major upcoming event: the FIP Promises Paris by WME, scheduled for tennis Padel Lésigny Club.

One World Padel Quest in full expansion

“We are very proud to participate in the All-Star Challenge organized by Padel Reference and Padel Touch here in Bordeaux,” confides Eric Pottier.
The World Padel Quest, launched a few months ago, is experiencing rapid growth: “We already have more than 1500 registered throughout France. Every day, new regions join us: Brittany, Alsace, PACA, Normandy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine… It’s impressive to see this national enthusiasm.”

FIP Promises Paris: youth at the heart of the project

Among the upcoming events, Eric Pothier mentions a major event: “ The FIP Promises Paris by WME, this is a first of its kind. It will be the biggest European youth tournament, and we are very proud to be partners with it.”

Organized at the end of October – beginning of November, this event will bring together the best young European players, in line with the TNJ (National Youth Tournaments) implemented by the FFT.
"We have enormous faith in young people. It is from them that the progression of French padel will come in the next ten years," insists Pothier, praising the work of JT Peyrou, William Solis et Franck Binisti, co-founders of the event.
"You are passionate, and creating such a competition is a real challenge. We had to support you."

Eric Pothier: “The FIP Promises Paris, a unique springboard for young talents”

A father's view of the new generation

The subject is particularly close to Eric's heart, whose son Tyrone Potter is among the best young French players.
"He'll be there in Paris," he confirms proudly. "He recently played against one of the best Spaniards in the world and only lost in a super tie-break. It's this kind of experience that helps our young players grow."

For the co-founder of World Padel Quest, these confrontations are essential:
"Meeting the best, experiencing these moments, is fundamental to their progress. Young French people are progressing, and we hope to see a lot of people in Paris to encourage them."

"In 3 to 5 years, France will be able to compete with Spain"

Asked about the current gap with young Spaniards, Eric Pottier remains optimistic:
“I often compare it to football in the 80s. People said the French would never beat the Brazilians… and in 1998, we became world champions. Our youngsters are improving every day, we have very good coaches, but we have to more help and resources »

Despite the creation of the Vichy National Center for National Education, he believes that French potential deserves broader support:
"There are nearly 250 young people aged 10 to 16 in France, and only eight are in Vichy today. We need to increase opportunities."

Eric Pothier: “The FIP Promises Paris, a unique springboard for young talents”

An academy for young people from 2026

The World Padel Quest is also planning a concrete initiative:
"From September 2026, a academy for young talents will be created. Part of the funds raised by the circuit will be used to finance internships in France and Spain for around ten selected young people.

To conclude, Eric Pothier delivers a message of hope:
"I am convinced that within 3 to 5 years, we will have French people capable of competing with the best young Spaniards. We must continue to support them, encourage them, and inspire future generations to dream higher."

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