First Capital Bank Botswana hasofficially launched the inaugural FCB Padel Cup 2026, marking the beginning of a tournament that brings together some of Botswana and Southern Africa’s most passionate padel players in a celebration of sport, wellness and community.
Held on 8 and 9 August 2026 at The First Capital Bank Sports Village (10 by 20 Padel Club), the free to all, non-ticketed tournament attracted strong participation from players across a range of skill levels. Competitors battled it out in the Men’s and Women’s categories, with the top performing players progressing through to the knockout stages.
Speaking at the launch, First Capital Bank Acting CEO, Mr Letlhogonolo Matlhabe, described the tournament as an important milestone in the Bank’s commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, strengthening communities and supporting the growth of emerging sports across the region.
“The launch of the FCB Padel Cup represents more than just a sporting event. It is a platform that brings together individuals, families and communities through a shared passion for sport and wellness. We are excited to witness the growth of padel in Botswana and proud to be playing a role in creating opportunities for athletes to compete and showcase their talent,” he said.
The tournament also reflects First Capital Bank’s broader ambition to create meaningful experiences that extend beyond sport and encourage greater connection within the communities it serves.
First Capital Bank Marketing and Communications Manager, Ms Bame Seboni, said the Bank’s vision for the tournament was to create an inclusive and engaging platform that would bring people from different backgrounds together through sport.
“When we conceptualised this event, our vision was to create a truly inclusive, multi-demographic space that would transcend the sport itself and bring families, friends and the broader community together in the spirit of camaraderie. The incredible energy and participation we experienced this weekend are testament to that vision becoming a reality.
“At the heart of everything we set out to do is one fundamental concept: ‘belief comes first.’ The success of this weekend’s event is a powerful reflection of what can be achieved when that belief is brought to life through shared experiences and collective participation.
“We are equally excited to take this momentum forward as we host the Grand Final of the tournament on 26 and 27 September 2026, where winners from across Africa will come together to compete for the ultimate prize: an exclusive holiday destination experience,” she said.
The FCB Padel Cup 2026 forms part of a broader regional initiative that will see similar tournaments hosted across First Capital Bank’s footprint, including Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Botswana. The initiative underscores the Bank’s commitment to using sport as a platform to promote wellness, build community and create opportunities for participation and talent development.
As the tournament progresses towards its Grand Final in September, First Capital Bank looks forward to building on the momentum generated by the inaugural Botswana leg and celebrating the continued growth of padel across the region.
