The racing driver Paul Loup Chatin recently had the opportunity to try his hand at padel at Cupra Padel Point Tour at the Pyramids Club alongside the French number one, Alix Collombon. For this triple European Endurance champion and winner of the 24 Hours of Daytona, it was an opportunity to discover a new sport and bring a fresh perspective to padel.

“I haven't played much padel until now, but my tennis practice has definitely helped me in this sport. I was lucky enough to play alongside Alix, who guided me a lot on the court by giving me advice,” he said.

“You could even say that she drove me well, well piloted during this part.

He also believes that there are similarities between being a racing driver and a padel player. “They are both team sports. In my job, we sometimes drive with several people or in teams, and there is also the entire technical team. So the discussions and exchanges are very important.

Paul Loup Chatin Alix Collombon

“As the match progressed, I was more and more able to be precise in my movements and my shots.

He also acknowledges that padel is taking an increasingly important place in the sporting landscape. “I see it through my many trips. Padel is a topic that comes up a lot, especially since I am part of the Cupra team. And it obviously has a big impact.”

Paul Loup Chatin also sees the interest of padel as a complementary sport to his training as a racing driver. “I wonder if padel could not be a training sport around my job. It uses the legs, develops listening and synchronization with your partner. I understand why padel is so appreciated by athletes.”

The driver seems to have enjoyed his experience on the padel court. Who knows, maybe we'll see him again soon with a racket in his hand?

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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