From 2026 onwards, the  International Federation of Padel (FIP)  changes the framework of  coaching in competition  on the circuit  FIP Promises by introducing a clear distinction based on the players' ages. The presence of a  coach on the bench  will be allowed in  U16 and U18 while she will remain  banned in U12 and U14 where coaches will have to stand in the stands or on the periphery of the court, without the possibility of giving instructions.

Behind this regulatory decision, and even if some coaches believe that “it’s not up to the FIP to intervene at this level on what is good or not for young players” or that it “oversteps its role”, lies a logic of  progressive formation . Explanations.

Developing autonomy from the earliest categories

En  U12 and U14 , priority is given to the learning the game  and to the development of the player. At these ages, the objective is not immediate performance, but the ability to understand situations, to communicate with one's partner and to make decisions without outside assistance.

The absence of coaching during matches promotes the  playing the game , the  <br>Create conditions for accountability  and the  tactical autonomy It also helps to avoid an early dependence on instructions, which can sometimes be counterproductive in long-term development.

Limit the pressure and preserve the pleasure of playing

La  competitive pressure  This can appear very early in youth categories. The active presence of a coach on the sidelines, sometimes accompanied by parental or institutional pressures, can transform a training match into a source of stress.

By keeping the coaches at a distance  U12 and U14 The FIP seeks to preserve a  educational environment , healthier, where the joy of playing remains central. The message is clear: at this age, the match belongs first and foremost to the players.

Introduce coaching gradually in U16 and U18

From the categories  U16 and U18 The context is evolving. Players have a more stable technical base, are beginning to structure their game and are aiming for a more competitive practice.

The authorization of a  coach in pairs on the bench  allows the integration of the  tactical work in real-life situations , to learn how to manage interactions with a coach and to prepare players for the demands of higher-level competition. This step constitutes a  bridge between training and high level .

To align with international padel standards

On the professional circuits, the relationship  player-coach  is an integral part of the competition. By introducing coaching from the outset U16 The FIP aligns youth training with the  international standards , while avoiding an abrupt break when transitioning to senior status.

In tennis, the rules are clear and very comparable.

Under the aegis of the  International Tennis Federation  :

  •  No coaching allowed during youth matches  in the majority of U12 and U14 competitions
  • The player must  to manage on one's own , read the game and manage your emotions

In youth football, under the aegis of the  Fédération Internationale de Football Association  :

  • The coaches  cannot intervene during the action 
  • Instructions are given  before, at the break or after never continuously

In sports like judo, taekwondo, or gymnastics:

  • The coach  does not intervene during execution 
  • The young athlete must manage the competitive situation on his own.

Clarify the framework and facilitate arbitration

The differentiation between categories also simplifies the work of officials.  U12 and U14 The total ban on deposits limits disputes and abuses.  U16 and U18 The framework is precise, with a limited number of coaches and identical rules for everyone.

This clarification strengthens the  regulatory readability  and contributes to a more serene atmosphere surrounding youth competitions.

By clearly distinguishing between age categories, the  FIP  does not seek to restrict the role of coaches, but to  better support the players' progress Autonomy and enjoyment for the youngest, structure and preparation for high-level competition for the older ones: this approach seems to fit into a coherent and sustainable vision of  development of international padel .

So, for or against?

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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