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FFT Opens First National Padel Training Center in Vichy

The facility signals a €85 million, 10‑year drive to grow padel infrastructure for stronger international competitiveness.

Overview

  • The complex features 12 courts—six indoor and six outdoor—with indoor clearance over 10 meters, plus access to upgraded CREPS de Vichy facilities.
  • A first boarding cohort of 12 players, ages 13 to 16 (four girls, eight boys), balances schooling with daily training.
  • The FFT will use the center for elite player development, high‑level coach education, France team camps, and national or international events.
  • The launch follows rapid domestic growth to about 500,000 practitioners, more than 105,000 licenses, and roughly 3,200 courts as of September.
  • The federation presents the center and a €85 million, 10‑year loan program as steps to narrow the gap with Spain and Argentina, with France currently having three women in the global top 100 and no men.