Premier Padel and the FIP upgrade two events on the 2026 calendar

Premier Padel and the International Padel Federation have adjusted the 2026 calendar, upgrading two events for this season only.

The Pretoria event, originally a P2, becomes a P1 and runs from July 27 to August 2. The Kuwait stop, previously a P1, is promoted to Major status for its week of October 26 to 31. Both changes apply to 2026 alone.

Why the change

The tours framed the move as a way to keep ranking points and prize money steady after operational disruption in the region forced a reshuffle. By lifting the category of two stops, players have more points and money on offer across the season rather than less.

David Sugden, the Premier Padel CEO, said the upgrades were designed to add ranking points and prize money while keeping disruption to a minimum. Luigi Carraro, the FIP president, framed it as protecting player interests and keeping the tour stable as the sport keeps growing.

What it means for the race

For the top pairs chasing the year-end finals, a new Major and an extra P1 change the math. More points sit in the back half of the season, which keeps the rankings race open for longer and raises the stakes at events that might otherwise have been overlooked.