FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ESPN México and the Pickleball Federation of the Americas Launch Brand Activation Partnership for the 2026 Americas Pickleball Cup

Mexico City, July 8, 2025 — ESPN México and the Pickleball Federation of the Americas (PFA) today announced a comprehensive partnership to support the 2026 Americas Pickleball Cup, taking place April 6–11, 2026, at the Meliá Resort & Spa in Cozumel, Mexico.

ESPN México will leverage its full digital ecosystem—including ESPN.com, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and X—to deliver dynamic tournament storytelling, behind-the-scenes content, athlete profiles, and immersive brand activations. This collaboration represents a major leap forward in how emerging sports engage fans and connect sponsors with a rapidly growing, socially active community.

⁠“This is not just a sports partnership—it’s a digital brand growth engine,” said Gary Schwartz, CEO of the PFA. “ESPN México’s reach across digital platforms enables us to capture the energy of pickleball and translate it into authentic content that resonates with new audiences and delivers measurable value for partners.”

A Digital-First Strategy for a High-Growth Sport

The 2026 activation will help brands connect with an intergenerational, health-conscious audience through:

•⁠ ⁠Short-form highlight reels and match recaps on Instagram, TikTok, and X
•⁠ ⁠Original YouTube series spotlighting emerging national team talent
•⁠ ⁠Real-time social storytelling from Cozumel’s courtside action
•⁠ ⁠Editorial coverage and branded features on ESPN.com and partner platforms

⁠“Pickleball is no longer just a sport—it’s a social movement,” said Jorge Castillo, Head of Sports Partnerships at ESPN México. “This partnership is built for the digital age. We’re helping brands become part of the story—on every screen, in every feed, and in real time.”

About the 2026 Americas Pickleball Cup
The Americas Pickleball Cup is the official continental qualifier for the World Pickleball Cup, showcasing national teams from North, Central, and South America across men’s, women’s, and mixed divisions. Set at the luxury beachfront Meliá Resort in Cozumel, the 2026 event will combine elite athleticism with experiential fan engagement and a unique platform for brands seeking lifestyle-driven visibility. The Americas Pickleball Cup is more than a tournament—it’s a continental celebration of community, movement, and identity.

About ESPN México
ESPN México is a leader in sports media and storytelling across Latin America. Its multi-platform strategy spans digital, social, and emerging content formats, creating immersive fan experiences and meaningful brand partnerships. https://www.espn.com.mx/

About the Pickleball Federation of the Americas (PFA)
The PFA is the governing body for pickleball across the Americas and a member of the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF). Through events like the Americas Pickleball Cup, the PFA supports national team development, grassroots expansion, and Olympic pathway compliance.