In a groundbreaking development, Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) and Damm have announced a historic agreement that will see the fusion of Premier Padel and the World Padel Tour (WPT), effective in 2024.
Qatar Sports Investments, the entity behind the Premier Padel circuit, and Damm, the owner of Setpoint Events and the organizing force behind the World Padel Tour, have sealed a momentous deal for QSI to acquire the WPT. This milestone agreement ushers in a new era for professional padel, as Premier Padel and WPT consolidate into a single, global professional padel circuit, retaining the name Premier Padel, under the auspices of the International Padel Federation.
Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, President of Qatar Sports Investments and Premier Padel, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This marks a historic juncture for the sport of padel, witnessing the convergence of two premier professional padel circuits into one global entity, Premier Padel, commencing next year. We are exceptionally excited about this new chapter.”
A Decade of World Padel Tour Excellence
The agreement is the culmination of extensive negotiations spanning several months and encompasses QSI’s acquisition of WPT’s business assets. Furthermore, it aims to resolve outstanding disputes involving QSI, the International Padel Federation (FIP), and professional Padel players who have participated in both circuits.
Demetrio Carceller Arce, CEO of Damm, remarked, “World Padel Tour is embarking on a new phase under QSI’s leadership, which will contribute to expediting the international expansion of the circuit. For Damm, it is a matter of pride to have played a role in advancing professional padel, elevating the World Padel Tour to global prominence.”
Luigi Carraro, President of the International Padel Federation, also expressed his delight, stating, “As the global governing body of padel, we are thrilled to witness the merger of two illustrious tours into a spectacular global circuit. The International Padel Federation acknowledges Damm for its significant contributions to the sport of padel through the World Padel Tour since its inception in 2013.”
For the remainder of 2023, the WPT and Premier Padel circuits will continue to operate independently as planned. Simultaneously, concerted efforts will be made to harmonize competitions for the forthcoming year, culminating in the launch of the unified global circuit, Premier Padel, commencing in 2024. This merger is poised to redefine the landscape of professional padel and elevate the sport to unprecedented heights.
