Over ninety industry experts will take part in the various thematic forums of the Padel World Summit 2026, which will take place from May 26 to 28 at the Gran Via exhibition center of Fira de Barcelona. The organization has also revealed the names of the first confirmed speakers for the Global Padel Conference and the Innovation Arena. Among the names stand out international figures such as Bill Ullman, Mark Hewlett, Ignacio Soto Borja, Inés Álvarez, Ben Hanley, and Patricio Misitrano, who will share analysis on the economic and commercial growth driving the global expansion of padel. The Global Padel Conference aims to confirm its role as a platform to anticipate trends, exchange business models, and promote strategic partnerships. Under the theme “Next Padel: vision, partnerships and transformative power”, the 2026 edition will bring together more than forty experts, structuring the content around six fundamental areas.
- Global and institutional expansion
- Sustainable business models
- Strategic partnerships
- Technological innovation
- Talent development and professionalization
- Social and emotional impact of padel as a lifestyle
This program is complemented by the Innovation Arena, which will host over fifty additional presentations focused on startups, technology, and investments, bringing the total number of speakers to over ninety. Among the confirmed participants are profiles actively contributing to the growth of padel as an industry. Bill Ullman, president of the United States Padel Association, combines his financial background with sports commitment (he is a co-founder of the Anglo-American Padel Cup). Mark Hewlett leads Soul Padel, a company focused on the development of padel centers in the United Kingdom. Former world number one Inés Álvarez will address the topic of university padel development in Argentina and the United States, while Ben Hanley will present his experience in integrating padel within the British army. In addition, consultant and founder of the Racket Social Club, Patricio Misitrano, will moderate a session focused on maintaining the accessibility and social nature of padel, while preserving quality standards and strategic value. In parallel, the Innovation Arena will offer an exclusive interview with Ignacio Soto Borja, a key figure in the history of padel, current vice president of the International Padel Federation, and president of the Mexican Federation. Beyond the congress program, the Padel World Summit 2026 will bring together over 150 exhibiting companies under the slogan “Where passion meets business”, including leading industry brands. The event will also host the Play Arena, equipped with ten courts for product presentations, exhibition matches, and brand activations. The organization expects to welcome over 6,000 professionals from around the world for this edition, which will take place in Pavilion 6 of the Gran Via fairgrounds.
