The 2026 European Open is headed to Turkey: an individual European Open without national teams

The world of European pickleball is about to experience a major turning point with the official announcement of the European Open 2026. For the 2026 season, the prestigious continental competition will change scenery by moving to Turkey , more precisely to the Ali Bey Club in Manavgat , on the Mediterranean coast, from November 2 to 8, 2026 . 

This 2026 edition is distinguished by an individual format, without participation by national teams, making it an event open to players from all over the world, wishing to come and measure their level on an iconic European pickleball court. 

A first in Türkiye for the European Open

The European Pickleball Federation (EPF) has confirmed Turkey as the host of the next edition of the European Open 2026. This decision marks an important step in the development of the sport in Europe, with a venue that combines favorable weather conditions , modern infrastructure , and an attractive resort atmosphere for players and fans . 

The choice of the Ali Bey Club , located in Manavgat , is not insignificant. This well-known tourist destination on the Mediterranean coast offers quality sports facilities, a mild climate in November, and a welcoming environment for an international event. 

From November 2nd to 8th, 2026: a week of intense competition

The European Open will take place over seven consecutive days , from November 2 to 8, 2026 , according to official announcements shared by the organizers. 

This schedule features a full week dedicated to individual events, covering the classic pickleball categories: men's singles, women's singles, doubles, and possibly mixed doubles. The individual format means there will be no national team tournaments , opening the event to a much wider audience of registered players , regardless of their country of origin. 

Registration, qualifications and associated fees should be detailed by the EPF in the coming months, but confirmation of dates and venue already allows athletes to plan their seasons and travel. 

An “Open” format to attract the best players

Unlike other continental competitions where nations compete in teams, the 2026 European Open adopts an individual tournament format . This means that participants will not exclusively represent their national federations, but will register as individuals or pairs, without national team restrictions.

This style of competition is more akin to a major international Open than a team championship. Such a format is likely to attract not only European talent, but also international players seeking points, recognition, and experience on a high-level court. 

Why was Turkey chosen?

Organizing a European Open in a country like Turkey is part of a strategy to develop pickleball within the continent, favoring destinations where the climate, facilities and cultural welcome are assets for players and spectators.

Turkey, with its geographical location between Europe and Asia, is becoming a natural link between different regions of the world. As the organizers pointed out, the Ali Bey Club is considered "one of the finest pickleball venues in Europe," making it a logical choice to host an event of this magnitude. 

The Mediterranean climate in November also allows for outdoor matches with pleasant weather , which is rare at this time of year in many parts of Northern Europe. 

An event on the international pickleball calendar

The 2026 European Open is one of the major events on the international pickleball calendar , alongside tournaments like the PPA Open and national championships in various countries. The confirmation of this event by the European Pickleball Federation underscores the growing importance of European competitions within the global sports ecosystem. 

As pickleball continues to grow in popularity around the world, tournaments of this caliber play a vital role not only in the competition but also in promoting and raising the profile of the sport , both among players and fans. 

A tourist and sporting opportunity

Hosting a major competition like the European Open can also have positive repercussions in terms of sports tourism . Like other major sporting destinations, Turkey is ready to combine top-level sport with a travel experience , attracting visitors to enjoy both the competition and the region's cultural and natural attractions.

Events such as the European Open also encourage extended stays, which is beneficial for the local hospitality, catering and service sectors. 

A turning point for European pickleball

The European Open 2026 represents a historic milestone for pickleball in Europe. Taking place from November 2nd to 8th, 2026 at the Ali Bey Club in Turkey , with an open individual format , the event promises a week of high-level competition, open to players from all over the world. 

This choice of destination and format underlines the European Pickleball Federation's ambition to broaden the appeal of the sport while offering unique opportunities to pickleball competitors and fans. 

FAQ – European Open 2026

When will the 2026 European Open be held?

The European Open is scheduled to take place from November 2nd to 8th, 2026 in Turkey. 

Where will the competition take place?

The tournament will be played at the Ali Bey Club in Manavgat, Turkey . 

What format will the event have?

The 2026 edition will take place in individual mode , without national teams. 

Can I register if I come from outside Europe?

Yes, the European Open is open to players of all nationalities registered according to the terms and conditions defined by the organizer. 

Are the registration details already available?

Full information regarding registration, categories, and fees will be published by the organizer through official channels closer to the date.