"Bringing padel and the London P1 event to TNT Sports and HBO Max is a gamechanger for the sport in the UK and Ireland," he said.
"With padel’s rapid growth and increasing global appeal, this partnership is a key step in expanding our reach and engaging new audiences across these strategic markets."
Stewart Hosford, chief executive for international business at Sela, the event promoter, emphasized the importance of live broadcast.
"As promoter of London P1, our ambition is to establish this event as one of the standout tournaments in the global Premier Padel calendar," he said.
"Live broadcast is an important part of that vision, bringing the energy and excitement of Olympia to fans across the UK and Ireland, and helping make this inaugural event a landmark moment for the sport."
Rapid Growth and Challenges
The UK expansion follows rapid infrastructure growth.
Court numbers have risen from 72 in 2019 to nearly 1,500 by late 2025, according to the UK Padel report.
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Lawn Tennis Association figures show player participation exceeded 400,000 in 2024.
The 2026 international calendar includes 26 tournaments in 18 countries. Global estimates from Playtomic report over 58,000 courts and nearly 20,000 operational clubs worldwide.
Celebrity backing from figures like Andy Murray, who invested in operator Game4Padel, has further accelerated interest. However, venue operators face ongoing challenges surrounding court rental costs.
Booking fees reach up to £100 per hour at premium London locations such as Canary Wharf.
