Francisco Javier Rodríguez Aparicio  nicknamed Paco Pádel, an iconic figure in padel refereeing, passed away at the age of 62 due to cancer. The padel community mourns the loss of this Andalusian referee renowned for his professionalism, kindness, and infectious passion. After several years of battling illness, he breathed his last this Saturday, March 29, 2025, leaving the padel world in mourning.

More than twenty years in the service of arbitration

International referee since the early 2000s, Paco Pádel had over twenty years of experience at the highest level. Considered one of the best padel referees in the world, he officiated on the professional circuit  World Padel Tour  and during numerous championships of Europe ,  world  and Spain Throughout his career, he has officiated some of the most important matches in the history of padel, earning the unanimous respect of both players and the public. He was also responsible for coordinating refereeing for the entire circuit.  Dam  (series of tournaments sponsored by the Damm group).

This dual role of referee and trainer has allowed him to make a significant contribution to the professionalization of his sport. Always ready to support a competition, whether amateur or professional, Paco has been a  key figure  in the development of padel refereeing structures in Spain and Europe. His involvement has earned him several distinctions, including a Sports Merit medal awarded in 2007 by the Spanish Olympic Committee, thus recognizing his exceptional contribution to this young and growing sport.

Unwavering optimism in the face of illness

Despite the ordeal of cancer, Paco Aparicio displayed exemplary optimism and courage. Two years ago, while undergoing chemotherapy, he confided in an interview that "Everything's fine. I like to be a positive guy.". Through these words, the one we nicknamed Paco Pádel showed his determination to never give up. His unwavering smile and fighting spirit had left a lasting impression on everyone who came into contact with him at tournaments. This infectious optimism, even in the face of adversity, will remain one of the great lessons he leaves behind for the padel community.

Messages of condolence and tributes

The passing of Paco Aparicio has sparked a wave of emotion and tributes in the world of padel.  Spanish Federation of Padel  (FEP) expressed its  deep sadness  on social media, greeting “a great athlete, a great referee but above all a great person” and ensuring that he leaves "an indelible mark" in the heart of the padel family. For its part, the  Andalusian Federation of Padel  to which Paco was closely linked presented "[his] most sincere thanks to his family, his friends and the entire padel community", recalling that “dedication, professionalism and passion” which Paco has demonstrated throughout his prestigious career "left an indelible mark on padel". "Today, padel is in mourning. May it rest in peace.", concludes this moving message from the regional federation.

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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