Latin America remains one of the driving forces behind the global growth of padel. As one of the regions where the sport first flourished, it combines a strong sporting tradition with a market that is increasingly evolving towards more sophisticated business models. In this context, Argentina is reinforcing its position with the announcement of the new Bela Padel Center, a premium club concept integrated into a next-generation real estate development.
Padel was invented in Mexico in 1969 before spreading rapidly throughout Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay, where it became deeply embedded in the region's sporting culture. That legacy continues to shape Latin America's prominent position within the global padel industry.
According to the International Padel Federation (FIP) World Padel Report 2024, the Americas account for nearly 30% of the world's approximately 30 million amateur padel players.
Argentina, with more than 7,000 courts nationwide, remains one of the sport's most important markets. In addition, padel surpassed tennis in the number of sports bookings across Latin America during 2024, reaching a combined 3.7 million bookings, according to easycancha. Meanwhile, Mexico now has more than 400 clubs and an estimated annual market value of around US$392 million.
Belasteguín brings his club concept to Argentina
Against this backdrop, Fernando Belasteguín, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in padel history, has announced the launch of Bela Padel Center Buenos Aires, which will become the brand's third club worldwide, following Alicante and Barcelona, and its first in Latin America.
The project will be developed within Pride Canning, located in the southern area of Greater Buenos Aires, with an estimated investment of US$5 million.
The facility will cover 6,200 square metres across two floors, featuring nine indoor courts, a mini stadium, pro shop, multipurpose rooms, warm-up areas, changing rooms and direct access to the development's fitness centre. The upper floor will focus on the social experience, including a café, outdoor terrace, wellness areas and a lounge designed to extend the club experience beyond the court.
The project is being developed by Fernando Belasteguín together with Tedd Puig, Marc Capdevilla and Jorge Álvarez, supported by Carlos Costa, in partnership with Pride Developer and Sport Club. The opening is scheduled for 2027.
Padel becomes part of mixed-use real estate developments
The project reflects an increasingly visible international trend: integrating padel clubs into mixed-use real estate developments.
In these projects, sports facilities evolve beyond their traditional role, becoming social hubs that create community while adding value to residential and commercial developments.
This model has already gained momentum in markets such as the United States and Spain and is now beginning to expand across Latin America.
A natural evolution for one of padel's historic markets
Argentina continues to reinforce its importance within the global padel ecosystem. Alongside its established base of players, clubs and sporting tradition, the country is now embracing a new generation of premium facilities and real estate-driven business models, further strengthening Latin America's position as one of the world's leading regions for the continued growth of padel.
ENGLISH 
ESPAÑOL