From 2026 onwards, the International Federation of Padel (FIP) changes the framework of coaching in competition on the circuit FIP Promisesby introducing a clear distinction based on the players' ages. The presence of a coach on the bench will be allowed in U16 and U18while she will remain banned in U12 and U14where coaches will have to stand in the stands or on the periphery of the court, without the possibility of giving instructions.

Behind this regulatory decision, and even if some coaches believe that “it’s not up to the FIP to intervene at this level on what is good or not for young players” or that it “oversteps its role”, lies a logic of progressive formation. Explanations.

Developing autonomy from the earliest categories

En U12 and U14, priority is given to thelearning the game and to the development of the player. At these ages, the objective is not immediate performance, but the ability to understand situations, to communicate with one's partner and to make decisions without outside assistance.

The absence of coaching during matches promotes the playing the game, <br>Create conditions for accountability and tactical autonomyIt also helps to avoid an early dependence on instructions, which can sometimes be counterproductive in long-term development.

Limit the pressure and preserve the pleasure of playing

La competitive pressure This can appear very early in youth categories. The active presence of a coach on the sidelines, sometimes accompanied by parental or institutional pressures, can transform a training match into a source of stress.

By keeping the coaches at a distance U12 and U14The FIP seeks to preserve a educational environment, healthier, where the joy of playing remains central. The message is clear: at this age, the match belongs first and foremost to the players.

Introduce coaching gradually in U16 and U18

From the categories U16 and U18The context is evolving. Players have a more stable technical base, are beginning to structure their game and are aiming for a more competitive practice.

The authorization of a coach in pairs on the bench allows the integration of the tactical work in real-life situations, to learn how to manage interactions with a coach and to prepare players for the demands of higher-level competition. This step constitutes a bridge between training and high level.

To align with international padel standards

On the professional circuits, the relationship player-coach is an integral part of the competition. By introducing coaching from the outsetU16The FIP aligns youth training with the international standards, while avoiding an abrupt break when transitioning to senior status.

In tennis, the rules are clear and very comparable.

Under the aegis of the International Tennis Federation :

  • No coaching allowed during youth matches in the majority of U12 and U14 competitions
  • The player must to manage on one's own, read the game and manage your emotions

In youth football, under the aegis of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association :

  • The coaches cannot intervene during the action
  • Instructions are given before, at the break or afternever continuously

In sports like judo, taekwondo, or gymnastics:

  • The coach does not intervene during execution
  • The young athlete must manage the competitive situation on his own.

Clarify the framework and facilitate arbitration

The differentiation between categories also simplifies the work of officials. U12 and U14The total ban on deposits limits disputes and abuses. U16 and U18The framework is precise, with a limited number of coaches and identical rules for everyone.

This clarification strengthens the regulatory readability and contributes to a more serene atmosphere surrounding youth competitions.

By clearly distinguishing between age categories, the FIP does not seek to restrict the role of coaches, but to better support the players' progressAutonomy and enjoyment for the youngest, structure and preparation for high-level competition for the older ones: this approach seems to fit into a coherent and sustainable vision of development of international padel.

So, for or against?

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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