Preparations for the 2026 BNP Paribas Open
Timothy Foster
INDIAN WELLS, Calif. (KESQ) – Preparations are already underway for one of the Coachella Valley’s biggest annual events, as crews work to get ready for the 2026 BNP Paribas Open.
The world-renowned tennis tournament is just weeks away, and setup is already transforming the area surrounding the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Temporary structures are being installed, parking areas are being finalized, and large-scale transportation plans are being implemented ahead of the two-week event.
One of the most visible signs of preparation is the arrival of hundreds of BMW vehicles. More than 300 BMWs are already staged on site and will be used throughout the tournament to transport players, officials, and VIP guests. The fleet is part of a large-scale shuttle and traffic management operation designed to keep movement smooth during one of the busiest times of the year in the desert.
The tournament is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world, delivering a significant economic boost to the Coachella Valley. Local business owners say tourism during the tournament season is essential, with many relying on event-driven traffic to support operations through the slower summer months.
Last year, more than 500,000 people attended the BNP Paribas Open, generating more than $850 million for the local economy. Organizers anticipate another strong turnout this year as fans return for two weeks of world-class tennis and related events.
The 2026 BNP Paribas Open runs from March 1 through March 15 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.