International Padel Referee Course(FIP)

International Padel Referee Course (Level 1)

Overview

The International Padel Federation (FIP) is launching the 2025 International Padel Referee Course (Level 1), running from 25 October to 2 December 2025 - a professional qualification aimed at developing and certifying referees for official padel competitions both worldwide and in New Zealand.

The course offers a structured pathway for participants wishing to become accredited referees within the FIP system, while deepening their understanding of arbitration, tournament operations, and international regulations.

As padel continues its rapid growth globally, and here in New Zealand, this programme provides an ideal opportunity for players, coaches, and sport professionals to enhance their expertise and contribute to the development of the sport.

Course Objectives

Through this course, participants aim to obtain the Diploma of International Padel Referee (Level 1).
The course is intended for all people wishing to deepen their knowledge, receive ad-hoc training on arbitration matters, and be part of the refereeing framework of the FIP.

The course addresses the following topics:

Arbitrations knowledge
International Padel Federation knowledge
Rules of the game.
Rules and bylaws of the International Padel Federation.

On successful completion, participants will receive the FIP International Referee Diploma (Level 1) - officially recognising them as part of the international refereeing framework.

Diplomas and official credentials are issued directly by the International Padel Federation (FIP).

Course Structure

The course is delivered by the FIP Academy through a mix of self-learning and live online sessions on Microsoft Teams.

Duration: 28 October - 2 December 2025
Format: 6 modules + final examinations
Schedule: Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 12:00 – 13:30 CET (please note: 11pm-12.30am New Zealand Time)
Language: English

Each course includes:

Guided self-learning before class.
Online live sessions led by certified FIP instructors.
Assignments and case studies focused on decision-making and match management.
Practical officiating experience following successful completion of the theoretical phase.

Attendance is mandatory, and each participant’s performance is evaluated through a combination of attendance, coursework, and a final exam.

Topics Covered

Rules of Play
Technical Rules (FIP Tour)
Duties & Procedures of Referees
Code of Conduct
Draw Drafting & Order of Play
Reporting & Record-keeping
On-court Practice and Case Studies

Course Timeline

Module Dates: 28 October – 2 December 2025
Exams: 9 – 10 December 2025
Extraordinary Exam: 16 December 2025
Each module focuses on a specific refereeing area with guided readings, class activities, and assessments.

Registration Details

Registration Deadline: 24 October 2025 – 12:00 p.m. (CET)
Places Available in course: 20 – 25 participants

FIP Referee Course October 2025

Registration Form

If interested, send your registration through to FIP by 24 Oct 2025 (12 p.m. CET)
fipacademy@padelfip.com

Course Fees & Payment

€350 – via National Federation / Association
€450 – direct application (if available)

Payment is made by bank transfer to FIP (see PDF for details) once registration is confirmed.
Proof of payment must be received by 26 October 2025.

Refunds are available only for withdrawals made at least 10 days before the course begins.

Assessments

To earn the diploma, participants must complete both theoretical and practical components:

Theoretical:

Attendance & participation (10%)
In-class exercises (10%)
Final exam (80%) – closed-book

Practical:

On-court officiating experience
Evaluation marked as “Suitable” / “Not Suitable”

Participants who do not pass may retake the course or exams (up to two attempts within one year).

Next steps

Interested participants in New Zealand should read through the course description: