Guillaume Solis: "We experienced a pivotal moment for youth padel in France"

He established himself in just a few days as a a key event for young padel players in France and EuropeOrganized in Lésigny, the FIP Promises Paris by WME It brought together nearly 350 young players from across the continent, international delegations, and unusual media attention for a competition dedicated to youth categories. The event's president, William Solis This interview revisits the project's origins, the reasons for its success, its real impact on youth development, and the prospects already open for future editions. It sheds light on the challenges of developing youth padel in France, balancing structure, sporting excellence, and international ambition.

An ambitious and solid project

Three weeks after the event, what feeling prevails?
A mixture of pride and clear-sightedness. With a little hindsight, reviewing the images and the numerous responses received, we truly grasp the magnitude of what happened in Lésigny. We knew the project was solid and ambitious, but not to this extent.

During the tournament, you're constantly in action, making decision after decision. It's only afterwards that you realize what it all meant: the audience, the foreign delegations, the media exposure. A milestone has clearly been reached for youth padel in France.

The Genesis of the Project

How did the idea for FIP Promises Paris come about?
It all started with a discussion between Jean-Thomas Peyrou, Franck Binisti and me. We shared the same conviction: France lacked a truly international event dedicated to young people.
The turning point was the involvement of Daryl Monfils, who put us in touch with WME Sports. This immediately gave the project a very professional dimension. Jean-Thomas took charge of the relationship with the FIP and the sporting aspects, Franck handled the media side, and I ensured overall coordination.

Guillaume Solis: "We experienced a pivotal moment for youth padel in France" Peyrou

What is the initial assessment, both sporting and human?
The maturity of the young players. Their level of play, their commitment, their behavior on and off the slopes impressed all observers.

Nearly 350 players from all over Europe, was that planned?
Not at all. We were initially aiming for around 150 players. This turnout shows that a structured international event for young people was clearly in demand.

At what point did you realize that the tournament was taking on a new dimension?
By observing the activity on social media, I realized that for four days, content circulated throughout Europe. And above all, the public presence on site remained strong. At that moment, I understood that Lésigny had become, for one weekend, a true center of European youth padel.

How did the organization absorb this increase in power?
With great dedication and commitment, the volunteers were outstanding, as was the club team. I truly want to commend the entire organization, the volunteers, the club, and the partners. Their efforts were crucial to the success of this inaugural event.

Guillaume Solis: "We experienced a pivotal moment for youth padel in France" Hernan Auguste Wme Daniel

A European-wide impact

Were you surprised by the international visibility of the tournament?
Yes, even though the European dynamic already existed. Foreign federations and numerous academies widely promoted the event, which amplified its reach.

Can the FIP Promises change the perception of youth padel in France?
It's already happening. This event demonstrates that youth padel can be integrated into a structured national project. Clubs, academies, coaches, and institutions have witnessed the impact of a coherent international framework. With a collective effort, France can progress very rapidly.

Can it sustainably structure the youth sector?
Yes. It provides direction, a level of expectation, and a clear model to build upon.

A sequel is already in preparation

Is the FIP Promises Paris becoming a benchmark in Europe?
The feedback clearly points in that direction. The tournament has found its niche.

Is the second edition confirmed?
Yes, without hesitation. The team is already at work.

Any new developments coming soon?
Many. More levels, an enriched experience for players and families, innovations, and also renowned sponsors.

Will Lésigny remain the tournament venue?
For the next edition, yes. The club has all the necessary qualities. For the future, everything will depend on the growth of the event, but Lésigny will remain a key element of the project.

Projecting into the future

What role should FIP Promises play in the development of youth padel?
To become a driving force, a benchmark, an annual event that lifts the entire industry.

Personally, what did you learn from this experience?
May boldness pay off. This event confirms that with the right team and a clear vision, something strong and lasting can be built.
Today, my ambition is clear: to make FIP Promises Paris a major event for youth padel, capable of inspiring children, attracting the best academies and placing France at the heart of international youth padel.

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.