Padel Horizon Inaugurated in Lomme: 12 Courts Mark Largest Facility North of Paris
Lomme, France – Padel Horizon, featuring 12 courts, has been inaugurated as the largest padel facility north of Paris, according to local authorities. The center, located in the northern suburbs of the French capital, aims to expand access to the rapidly growing sport, which has seen a surge in popularity across Europe. The facility, which opened on April 5, 2024, includes training areas, spectator zones, and equipment rentals, according to a statement from the Lomme municipal government.
The project, funded by a combination of municipal grants and private investment, was spearheaded by Padel Horizon, a regional sports development group. A spokesperson for the organization stated, “This center represents a significant step forward for padel in the region. We believe it will not only serve local players but also attract enthusiasts from neighboring areas.” The facility’s scale and amenities position it as a potential hub for regional tournaments and community events.
What is Padel Horizon and Why Does It Matter?
Padel, a racket sport that blends elements of tennis, squash, and badminton, has gained traction in France over the past decade. The sport is played on an enclosed court with a wall, requiring players to hit a ball over a net while using a paddle. According to the French Padel Federation, the number of registered players in the country has grown by 40% since 2020, with over 200,000 participants as of 2023.
The inauguration of Padel Horizon underscores the sport’s expanding infrastructure. The center’s 12 courts—divided into 8 indoor and 4 outdoor courts—offer flexibility for year-round play. This contrasts with smaller, often temporary facilities in other regions. “This is a game-changer for Lomme,” said Jean Dupont, a local padel coach. “It provides a professional environment that encourages both casual play and competitive training.”
The facility’s location in Lomme, a city of approximately 100,000 residents, also highlights efforts to decentralize sports access. Paris has several high-profile padel centers, but many suburbs lack comparable infrastructure. The Lomme project aligns with broader urban development plans to boost recreational opportunities, as noted in a 2023 report by the Île-de-France regional government.
How Does Padel Horizon Compare to Other Facilities?
While Padel Horizon claims to be the largest center north of Paris, independent verification of this assertion is limited. The nearest competitor, Padel Park in Saint-Denis, features 10 courts but lacks the same level of amenities. A 2022 survey by the French Sports Infrastructure Association ranked Padel Horizon as the third-largest facility in the Île-de-France region, behind two centers in Paris itself.
However, the center’s size and investment reflect a strategic focus on growth. According to a 2023 report by the European Padel Union, the Île-de-France region accounts for 30% of France’s padel courts, with Lomme’s facility expected to increase this share by 15% over the next five years. The project’s budget, estimated at €8 million, includes €3 million in public funding and €5 million from private sponsors.
“This is a model for future developments,” said Marie Leclerc, a sports policy analyst at the University of Paris-Saclay. “By combining public and private resources, Lomme is setting a precedent for scalable infrastructure.”
What’s Next for Padel Horizon?
The center’s first major event, a regional padel tournament, is scheduled for June 2024. Organizers have partnered with the French Padel Federation to host the competition, which will feature teams from northern France and Belgium. The event aims to showcase the facility’s capabilities and attract international attention.
Additionally, Padel Horizon plans to launch a youth training program in collaboration with local schools. The initiative, set to
