# Padel: FIP officially becomes a WADA Code Signatory

> FIP has officially joined the Signatories to the WADA World Anti-Doping Code, with direct consequences for players, circuits and padel governance.

Source: Actu Padel
Canonical: https://actu-padel.com/en/fip-wada-code-signatory-padel/
Language: en-US
Published: 2026-07-16T15:45:00+02:00
Modified: 2026-07-16T15:56:17+02:00
Author: Jérôme
Categories: FIP – circuit & rankings, Padel International
Tags: FIP, international, wada
Featured image: ![Identité visuelle de la FIP associée à l’annonce de son statut de signataire WADA.](https://cdn.actu-padel.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/actu-padel-fip-signataire-wada-padel.webp?strip=all&sharp=1)

**The FIP is now a Signatory to the WADA World Anti-Doping Code.** Announced on 15 July 2026, the recognition brings international padel into a shared framework of rules, testing and accountability. For players and circuits, the change is institutional, but its effects will be highly practical.

## What does WADA Signatory status mean for the FIP?

Becoming a Signatory means that the International Padel Federation commits to implementing the World Anti-Doping Code and its International Standards. This framework harmonises testing, results management, prevention, athlete education and disciplinary procedures.

The recognition follows what the federation describes as a long and rigorous process, including two years of collaboration with the International Testing Agency (ITA). The FIP had already delegated the independent management of its anti-doping programme to the ITA. The new status therefore completes a substantial governance project rather than serving as a symbolic announcement.

Padel now joins a **global anti-doping architecture** used by many international federations. The FIP must not only keep its rules compliant, but also demonstrate that they are implemented over time.

## A stronger framework for players and competitions

For athletes, the objective is clear: create more consistent competitive conditions and strengthen confidence in the integrity of results. Events under FIP jurisdiction — the FIP World Cup, Qatar Airways Premier Padel Tour, Cupra FIP Tour and Hexagon World Series — are directly covered by this higher compliance standard.

FIP President Luigi Carraro called it a “historic milestone” for the federation and the global padel community. He stressed the aim of providing a “fair, transparent and trustworthy” environment. Beyond the wording lies a central issue in professionalisation: a credible circuit is no longer judged only by its calendar, stars or audience, but also by the strength of its safeguards.

This accession does not close the file. It creates a **lasting compliance obligation**, built on common rules, independent testing and continued cooperation with WADA and the ITA.

## A strategic step for padel’s international recognition

The significance extends beyond anti-doping. By aligning with international standards, the FIP strengthens padel’s position in the global sports ecosystem, where governance, athlete protection and integrity have become essential conditions for recognition.

The [official FIP statement](https://www.padelfip.com/2026/07/international-padel-federation-becomes-wada-signatory/) and the [WADA list of Code Signatories](https://www.wada-ama.org/en/what-we-do/world-anti-doping-code/code-signatories) give the announcement a firm institutional basis. For padel, the news fits in one line; its consequences will unfold over several seasons.