The Sport Industry Group has launched the first Sport Industry Padel Cup, scheduled for April at Rocket Padel. The event coincides with the week before the 25th anniversary of the Sport Industry Awards, featuring mixed-gender teams from the sports industry. It aims to foster networking and competition in the growing sport of padel.
The Sport Industry Padel Cup marks a special addition to the celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the Sport Industry Awards. Organized by the Sport Industry Group, the tournament will occur at Rocket Padel in April, drawing professionals from various sectors of the sports industry. Participants will form mixed-gender teams of two, emphasizing inclusivity and collaboration in a format that mirrors the industry's dynamics.
The competition's winner will be announced live on stage during the Awards ceremony later that week, adding prestige to the event. This setup not only highlights competitive padel play but also provides valuable networking opportunities ahead of one of the sector's key gatherings.
Dylan Pugh, Managing Director of the Sport Industry Group, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative. “We’re really excited to announce the launch of the Sport Industry Padel Cup as part of our 25th anniversary celebrations. It feels like the perfect opportunity to bring the industry together around a sport that’s growing rapidly in the UK and genuinely fun to play.” He further noted the importance of the mixed-gender format, stating, “It reflects the way the sport industry works at its best – inclusive, collaborative and competitive. Launching this in the week leading up to the Sport Industry Awards, and then crowning the winners on stage, gives it a real sense of occasion and allows us to celebrate the industry’s best padel players on the biggest night of the year!”
The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) serves as the official partner, supporting padel's expansion in Great Britain. Tom Murray, LTA’s Head of Padel, commented, “I am delighted to announce that the LTA is now an official partner of the Sport Industry Padel Cup. 2025 marked a landmark year for padel in Great Britain, and its popularity continues to grow into 2026.” He added that padel offers a “unique platform for business networking and corporate entertainment,” with its inclusive format appealing to diverse participants.
Companies interested in entering teams or partnering can contact Ashley Hirschberger for details. This event underscores padel's rising status as an accessible and social sport within professional circles.