Colombo will once again host the Sri Lanka Padel League (SLPL) from June 19 to 21 at Padel House, marking the return of the competition for its second season. Following a breakthrough inaugural year, SLPL 2026 arrives with expanded media coverage, enhanced broadcast production, and international player participation. In just its second year, the league positions Sri Lanka as South Asia’s emerging hub for franchise padel.
Building the ecosystem
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 creating 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,” she commented.
Teams and competition
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 debut. Defending champions Colombo Aces return with momentum after narrowly edging out Galle Fort Mariners and Trinco Titans last season. “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,” he added.
Auction and player participation
SLPL 2026 will continue with Men’s, Women’s and Mixed formats, with squads assembled through a live Player Auction in April. In a significant change, the auction will no longer divide players into categories, giving franchise owners full strategic control. Registrations are open to both local and international athletes with no ranking or age restrictions, closing on April 14 via slpadelleague.com..
Commercial growth and partnerships
The league enters a new growth phase with Standard Chartered Priority Banking joining as Title Partner and Hutch Telecommunications as Powered By Partner. Matches will be broadcast nationwide via PEO TV, with E FM as the official Radio Partner. 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,” he said.
Beyond competition, SLPL continues its partnership with 1Works, supporting Navodhya and Justice for Animals, ensuring that the league’s expansion contributes to meaningful social impact initiatives.
