Professional padel is going through a new period of turbulence. International Federation of Padel has just announced the establishment of a mandatory annual fee to have access to Padel One, the official registration platform for international tournaments. A decision that directly affects all ranked players outside the world's Top 100.

Until now, access to this system was free. Now, in order to simply register for tournaments Premier Padel and FIPYou will have to pay.

A measure that hits the most vulnerable players hardest.

The pricing structure is clear:

  • 120 € for Premier Padel
  • 80 € for the Cupra FIP Tour
  • 150 € for both circuits
  • Not to mention the tournament registration fees, the federal license, travel and accommodation.

In other words, an additional cost for players who, precisely, struggle to make a living from their sport and must participate in more tournaments to improve their ranking.

The paradox is obvious: the Top 100 in the worldThose who already have the highest incomes and sponsors are exempt.

Cepero goes to the front

Among the most critical voices, that of Álvaro Cepero It resonated strongly. The Spanish player didn't mince words:

"Now, we have to pay an annual fee just to register for tournaments. It's a way of raising money by sheer force."

And even more directly:

"That's called making a mockery of us to our faces. Congratulations."

Cepero also points to collective responsibility in the evolution of the circuit:

"Are you happy? Are you going to pay the dues of all those who believed in you?"

A message addressed directly to those who had supported the transition to Premier Padel.

Credit alvarocepero91

The final straw for many players

This measure is the latest in a series of changes that have been poorly received:

  • End of hotels covered in preliminary phases
  • Registration fees paid on the FIP Tour
  • Overall increase in competition costs

For many players, the initial promise of a more protective circuit is fading, in favor of a model increasingly considered financial.

A debate that goes beyond the simple matter of membership fees

Behind this controversy lies the economic sustainability of professional padel What is at stake? Can a global circuit be built without weakening its foundation? Can we constantly demand more from those who earn the least?

The FIP speaks of recognition towards the Top 100. The players, for their part, see it as a structural imbalance.

One thing is certain: with this new tax, the unease between the FIP and a significant part of the peloton is far from being eased.

Benjamin Dupouy

I discovered padel directly during a tournament, and frankly, I didn't really like it at first. But the second time, it was love at first sight, and since then, I haven't missed a single match. I'm even ready to stay up until 3am to watch a final of Premier Padel !

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