Dortmund, Germany – A significant shift is coming to the city’s sporting landscape. The Soccer City Center, located on Zinkhüttenweg in Dortmund-Körne, will close its doors on March 31st, 2026, due to the expiration of its lease, according to owner Michael Lusch. But, the location won’t remain dormant for long. Plans are underway to transform the space into one of the largest padel facilities in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), slated to open in the summer of 2026.
The project is being spearheaded by PADL, who envision a large indoor complex boasting 15 padel courts. This would establish Dortmund as having the largest padel hall in all of NRW, catering to the rapidly growing demand for the sport. Currently, PADL anticipates a July 2026 opening, as indicated on their website.
Padel, often described as a blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has seen a surge in popularity across Europe, and this recent facility aims to capitalize on that momentum. The Dortmund complex will offer a variety of court options, including premium courts, tournament courts complete with spectator seating, single courts designed for one-on-one play, and a dedicated court for children. Adding to the versatility, the facility will also include two pickleball courts, another rapidly growing racket sport originating in the United States.
Beyond the courts themselves, PADL is emphasizing a “Social Padel Club” atmosphere. The design incorporates spaces for members and guests to socialize after matches, fostering a sense of community. Plans include hosting tournaments, leagues, and events, alongside a full gastronomic offering. The location, situated in the Gewerbegebiet (industrial area) at Zinkhüttenweg 11 in Dortmund’s eastern district, offers convenient access near the B1 and B236 federal highways.
For padel enthusiasts in Dortmund, this new facility will provide a second major option, complementing the existing PadelCity near the stadium. The increasing demand for padel courts in the region, with existing facilities often fully booked, underscores the need for expanded options.
Currently, bookings for the new facility are unavailable. Information regarding pricing and potential membership options will be released closer to the opening date. The growth of padel in Europe, and particularly in NRW, is undeniable, with new facilities constantly being developed to meet the rising interest.
The closure of the Soccer City Center marks the end of an era for some local footballers. Michael Lusch, the owner of SCC, is a well-known figure in Dortmund’s football community, having run the center for a significant period. The center can be reached for bookings at 0231 514410 or through their website, http://www.soccer-city-center.de/, until March 31st, 2026.
This transition from traditional soccer to the burgeoning sport of padel reflects a broader trend in European sports, where accessibility and social engagement are becoming increasingly important. The “Social Padel Club” concept aims to tap into this trend, creating a space where players of all levels can connect and enjoy the game.
The new facility’s location is strategically chosen for accessibility. Zinkhüttenweg 11 is easily reachable from major transportation routes, making it convenient for players from across Dortmund and the surrounding areas. The addition of pickleball courts also demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, recognizing the growing popularity of this related sport.
As the opening date approaches, anticipation is building within the Dortmund sporting community. The promise of a state-of-the-art padel facility, combined with a focus on social interaction, positions PADL to become a central hub for the sport in NRW. The next step for PADL will be releasing details on membership options and booking procedures, which are expected shortly before the July 2026 launch.
For those interested in learning more about padel or finding existing facilities, resources are available online. Keep an eye on PADL’s official channels for updates on the Dortmund facility’s progress and opening details.
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