Sri Lanka Padel League returns bigger

Colombo will enter the arena once again from June 19 to 21 as the Sri Lanka Padel League (SLPL) returns to Padel House for a second season that signals the rapid rise of franchise padel in the region.

Following a breakthrough inaugural year, SLPL 2026 arrives sharper, stronger and more ambitious — with expanded media coverage, enhanced broadcast production and for the first time, international player participation. In just its second year, SLPL 2026 cements Sri Lanka as South Asia’s emerging franchise padel destination.

The league is owned and operated by Eventistry Sports, founded by Karin Wijeratne, Ifham Ariff and Ishara Gooneratne, with the vision of professionalising padel locally and building a structured franchise ecosystem around one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.

“Season One validated the demand for structured franchise padel in Sri Lanka,” said League Director Karin Wijeratne. “Season Two is about elevation. By opening the league to international players, strengthening our competitive framework and enhancing production standards, we are taking the next definitive step in the evolution of franchise sport in this country.”

Eight corporate-backed franchises will compete this year: Yala Rangers, Trinco Titans, Ahangama Ballers, Colombo Aces, Weligama Sharks, Galle Fort Mariners, Ella Archers and Trinco Recovery Room. Six return from Season One, while Ahangama Ballers and Weligama Sharks make their league debut, looking to assert immediate impact.

Defending champions Colombo Aces return with momentum after setting the benchmark last year, narrowly ahead of Galle Fort Mariners and Trinco Titans in a fiercely contested finish.

“Winning the inaugural season was historic for us,” said Viren Beruwalage, Owner of the Colombo Aces. “But defending it is what builds legacy. We’ve set the benchmark — and we intend to bring that trophy back where it belongs.”

SLPL 2026 will continue its high-intensity men’s, women’s and mixed format, with franchises assembling their squads through a live Player Auction scheduled for April. In a significant shift, the auction will no longer divide players into categories — placing full strategic control in the hands of franchise owners.

Player registrations are now officially open to both local and international athletes, with no ranking or age restrictions. All registered players will enter directly into the April auction pool. Registrations close April 14, 2026 via slpadelleague.com.

Executive Director, Head of Wealth and Retail Banking of Standard Chartered Chamikara Wijesinghe commented: “We are pleased to come on board as Title Partner for the second edition of the SLPL. 

“With Padel gaining strong traction among our high-net-worth clients, the league provides a natural platform for us to engage with them through a sport they actively enjoy”.