Doha: The International Padel Federation (FIP) announced on Wednesday that the State of Qatar will host the inaugural edition of the FIP Asia Padel Cup, the continental national team tournament scheduled from October 17 to 24.
According to Qatar News Agency, the tournament will unfold in two stages. The first stage, titled Phase 2, will run from October 17 to 19 and will feature 17 teams ranked from 5th to 21st in the Asia-Oceania region. These teams will be divided into four groups: three groups of four teams and one group of five. The top team from each group will qualify for the final stage.
The second stage, titled Final 8, is the top-tier phase of the competition and will take place from October 20 to 24. It will feature the four teams that qualify in the first stage, along with the continent's top four ranked teams. This stage will be played at the prestigious Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex.
Commenting on the event, President of Padel Asia and Tournament Director Tareq Zainal expressed pride in hosting the first edition of the FIP Asia Padel Cup in Qatar. He highlighted that the tournament represents more than just a competition; it is a celebration of the growth of padel across Asia. Zainal emphasized Qatar's role in embracing padel with passion and purpose.
FIP President Luigi Carraro also remarked on the significance of hosting the FIP Asia Padel Cup in Doha, noting its symbolic importance for the sport's growth. He expressed gratitude to the Qatar Tennis Squash and Badminton Federation (QTF) for their hospitality and support in organizing world-class sporting events.