In Rome, the Foro Italico is changing its face again. Out goes the red clay of the Italian Internationals, in comes the intense blue of the padel courts. By welcoming the BNL Italy Major Premier Padel, one of the most prestigious tournaments on the world circuit, the temple of Italian sport adapts without denying its identity.

A legendary place in full transformation

In the space of a few days, the historic venue was transformed to welcome the world's padel elite. Eleven pitches were installed in the heart of this iconic site, blending classical architecture, nature, and sporting passion. The goal: to offer an immersive experience to fans, whether they are connoisseurs, curious, or novices.

This transformation is not just a simple change of scenery. It embodies a deeper evolution: that of the place padel now occupies in the Italian sporting landscape.

Rome goes padel: the Foro Italico goes from red to blue Italy Major Premier Padel

Padel, a national phenomenon

In Italy, the discipline is experiencing a meteoric rise. The country has more than 1,2 million practitionersincluding 250 in RomeThis success is explained by the accessibility and social dimension of the sport: padel brings together generations, encourages exchange, and establishes itself as a place for meetings rather than confrontation.

Rome, the new world capital

For Marco Mezzaroma, president of Sport and Health, Rome is today “one of the four world capitals of padel,” alongside Doha, Paris, and Acapulco. A recognition that has been built in just three years, driven by popular enthusiasm and institutional support.

“The Foro Italico reflects this evolution,” he explains. “From white marble to blue pitches, the venue adapts without betraying itself. The BNL Italy Major is not only a top-tier sporting event, it is also a tool for promotion of sport as a vector of inclusion and well-being. "

A sports festival open to all

Beyond the racket stars, this event aims to bring together a wide audience: families, children, amateurs or simple walkersThe stated objective is clear: to make padel a popular celebration, where entertainment meets conviviality.

Carried by the Italian Tennis Federation and Padel, in connection with the International FederationThis Major promises to be a pivotal moment in Italy's conquest of padel. A turning point that Rome seems ready to fully embrace.

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.

On the same subject

Tags