The decision to award the 2026 and 2028 FIP World Cup to Doha is more than another addition to Qatar’s packed sporting calendar. It is another vote of confidence in a country that has spent years proving it can host the world’s biggest events with consistency, quality and ambition.
International federations rarely hand consecutive editions of a flagship tournament to the same host unless there is complete trust in its ability to deliver.
The International Padel Federation has done exactly that, recognising not only Qatar’s modern facilities but also its proven record of organising events that leave a lasting impression on athletes, officials and fans.
The Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex has become one of padel’s leading venues. By hosting the Qatar Major Premier Padel on several occasions and previous world championships, Doha has helped the sport reach new audiences while providing players with world-class conditions.
The record prize money announced for the next two editions also shows that the tournament is entering a new era, with Qatar playing a central role in that growth.
This latest honour also reflects a much bigger picture as over the past decade, Qatar has transformed itself into one of the world’s busiest sporting destinations.
The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 changed global perceptions by delivering one of the most memorable tournaments in football history.
The country has continued to attract major international competitions across different sports, showing that its sporting ambitions did not end with football’s biggest event.
The FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2027 will bring another global audience to Doha. The FIFA Arab Cup in 2029 will once again showcase Qatar’s tournament expertise, while the Doha 2030 Asian Games promise to be one of the biggest multi-sport events ever staged in the region.
Each event builds on the experience gained from the last, creating a cycle that strengthens the country’s sporting ecosystem. Of course, hosting events alone is not enough.
The real challenge is to ensure they leave a lasting legacy by encouraging participation, developing local talent and inspiring the next generation. Qatar has already invested heavily in facilities, coaching and community sport, and continued progress in those areas will be just as important as attracting international competitions.
The FIP’s decision confirms that Qatar remains one of the safest choices for global sport. More importantly, it shows that the country’s reputation has been built on consistent performance rather than one successful tournament.
