Padel is experiencing unprecedented global popularity. Played in open, friendly, and often very busy clubs, it attracts curious onlookers, enthusiasts every day... and sometimes individuals with far less sporting intentions. In Italy, a luxury watch theft was filmed live in a club. An investigation led to the arrest of two fake players who were operating in several sports facilities. This case was reported by our Italian colleagues at the Rai, which reveals a dark side of the growing popularity of this sport.

Thefts at padel clubs in Italy: two fake players arrested

It's a story worthy of a movie script. In Italy, two men were arrested for stealing luxury watches from several padel clubs. Their method was well-rehearsed. They presented themselves in sportswear, racket in hand, as simple players who had come to play. Upon entering, they provided false IDs, which allowed them to move freely around the facilities.

Once inside the club grounds, they took their time, observing the players as they arrived. Their attention was drawn to those wearing valuable watches, often removed and left near the pitch during the match. They waited for the right moment to approach, steal the item without arousing suspicion, and then left the premises in a vehicle equipped with forged license plates.

The events took place between 2023 and 2024 in clubs located in the provinces of Bergamo and Lodi. The total damage is estimated at around 80 euros. Thanks to video surveillance and a thorough investigation, the Italian police were able to identify and arrest the two suspects, who reside in Nichelino, near Turin.

Caught red-handed!

The captured footage clearly demonstrates the effectiveness of their modus operandi. These thieves blended seamlessly into the surroundings, taking advantage of the open and relaxed atmosphere of the padel clubs to operate with complete discretion.

This case is a reminder that padel's friendly environment, while making it a popular and accessible sport, can also be a security weakness. Many clubs across Europe are now considering strengthening access controls and surveillance, particularly during peak hours.

Franck Binisti

Franck Binisti discovered padel at the Club des Pyramides in 2009 in the Paris region. Since then, padel has been part of his life. You often see him touring France to cover major French padel events.

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