Pocket FM, a leading audio series platform, has signed a strategic partnership with the Indian Open 2026, one of India’s major pickleball tournaments hosted by Global Sports in Hyderabad in association with Pickl’Out and CrossCourts Sports Club.
The Indian Open Pickleball 2026, which began on April 1, 2026, is envisioned as a watershed moment for Pickleball in India, bringing together elite talent, devoted fans, and a fast-growing athletic community. Pickleball, one of India’s most exciting and fastest-growing sports, is also gaining traction among younger, technologically aware audiences who are drawn to its pace, accessibility, and community-oriented appeal. Pocket FM, like the sport itself, has carved itself a unique niche among new-age audiences by providing immersive, emotionally engaging audio narrative experiences that resonate intimately with today’s listeners. This collaboration brings together cultural influences, an emerging sport, and a major platform that is reinventing entertainment in modern India.
Pocket FM will have a strong presence during the tournament with comprehensive on-site and digital integrations geared to engage fans. The brand will be prominently displayed on centre court, with venue-wide visibility, presenting rights for select matches, mic branding, player lounge branding, and incorporation into the tournament’s live streaming and social media ecosystems. Pocket FM will also have a significant presence on team jerseys and other important audience touchpoints, allowing for meaningful engagement with both on-site spectators and the tournament’s larger digital community.
With people anticipated to attend both in person and via live streaming on YouTube and other social platforms, the relationship represents a significant potential for Pocket FM to interact with a youthful, highly engaged, and culturally plugged-in audience on a large scale. It also represents another step in the brand’s ongoing efforts to connect with growing passion areas and establish relevance through high-impact partnerships and audience-first brand integrations.
Vineet Singh, SVP and Global Head – Brand Marketing and Partnerships, Pocket FM, said, “At Pocket FM, we believe in opportunities that engage with audiences through cultural moments and communities that resonate strongly with today’s generation. Pickleball is building a strong connection with the young and engaged audiences in India, making Indian Open 2026 a compelling platform for us. This partnership allows us to connect with people in a meaningful way through strong on-ground presence and digital visibility, while reinforcing Pocket FM’s commitment to associating with events where passion, energy and community come together.”
Hemal Jain, Founder of Global Sports, Indian Open 2026, said, “Indian Open Pickleball 2026 is envisioned as a landmark moment for Pickleball in India, bringing together top talent, passionate fans, and a rapidly expanding sporting community. Partnering with Pocket FM adds an exciting new dimension to that experience. As a brand that has built deep resonance with young audiences across the country, Pocket FM is a strong fit for the energy and ambition of this tournament. We look forward to creating a dynamic and memorable experience together for players and fans alike.”
Pocket FM has continuously increased its presence in youth culture through smart alliances that bring the brand closer to groups united by passion, competitiveness, and shared experiences. Its partnership with the Indian Open 2026 is another key step forward in that path, as the platform expands its cultural significance throughout India’s burgeoning athletic ecosystems.
