The latest edition of FITUR has once again highlighted the strong momentum of the global tourism sector and its growing connection with new business models linked to sport, experience and active leisure. With more than 255,000 visitors, participation from over 10,000 companies representing 161 countries, and an estimated economic impact of €505 million in the Community of Madrid, the International Tourism Trade Fair has reaffirmed its position as one of the world’s leading platforms for business generation and strategic partnerships.
In this context, FITUR 2026 has strengthened its relevance for disciplines such as padel, which is increasingly being integrated into tourism, hospitality and high-value sports experience offerings. The presence of dedicated sections such as FITUR Sports, FITUR Experience and FITUR Know How & Export reflects the growing importance of sports tourism, the professionalisation of infrastructures and the export of sport-related business models.
Padel, currently undergoing a phase of strong international expansion, finds in events like FITUR a strategic showcase for destinations, resorts, tourism operators, clubs and brands that are committed to integrating sports facilities, premium experiences and active tourism proposals into their value proposition. The consolidation of projects combining sport, hospitality, wellness and lifestyle responds to a clear demand from travellers seeking differentiated, high-quality experiences.
Furthermore, FITUR’s strong international profile -with a 12% increase in international professional visitors and an 11% rise in international exhibitors- directly aligns with the internationalisation processes currently shaping the padel industry, both in emerging markets and in more mature destinations.
From a sector perspective, FITUR once again proves to be a key indicator of major trends influencing the development of padel: investment in sports infrastructure, integration into tourism projects, professional management models and the creation of new business opportunities on a global scale. A scenario that reinforces tourism as one of the main drivers of padel’s growth in the coming years.
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