International Soccer Fans

Athletes Make The Best™ supports athletes at every stage of life in building thriving careers and businesses—within and beyond sport. Set against the backdrop of soccer’s largest global stage, we spotlight athlete visionaries advancing economic, workforce, and community development. With over 80% of people having played a sport at some point in their lives, chances are—you’re an athlete too.

Join us for iconic business and leisure experiences that highlight the top destinations to Work, Live, Stay, Play, and Invest—while honoring athlete-owned and athlete-led ventures that are redefining what’s possible for all

→ Feature your business, employment, and volunteer opportunities
→ Become a sponsor, exhibitor, or speaker

Athletes Make The Best Week | July 14–19, 2026

TUE | July 14

Athletes Make The Best Fashion and Beauty Brands
12:00pm – 4:00pm | Jersey City, NJ
An exclusive experience on how athletes are powering economic growth and workforce development through fashion and beauty brands.
→ Learn More

WED | July 15

Sports + Entertainment Infrastructure Breakfast
9:00am – 12:00pm | Queens NYC
An industry briefing revealing insights from our yearlong study on regional sports and entertainment infrastructure and public sentiment.
→ Learn More

Athletes Make The Best™ Authors | Authors Night
4:00pm – 10:00pm | Brookyln, NYC
An evening of storytelling with athlete-authors, innovators, and changemakers sharing journeys that transcend sport.
→ Learn More

THU | July 16

Athletes Make The Best™ Authors | Authors Night
4:00pm – 10:00pm | Newark, NJ
An evening of storytelling with athlete-authors, innovators, and changemakers sharing journeys that transcend sport.
→ Learn More

FRI | July 17

Athletes Make The Best Studio™ 
9:00am – 2:00pm | Jersey City, NJ
A dynamic space where athlete-led innovation, storytelling, and brand experiences converge. We bring together business leaders, government officials, and community influencers to shape impactful narratives—from C-suites to neighborhoods. Featuring our 2026 Athletes Make The Best™ Award honorees.

Schedule

I. Athletes Make The Best™ C-Suites | 9am – 1pm
An executive-led series of panels featuring athlete CEOs, COOs, CFOs, CMOs, CTOs, CHROs, and CIOs—sharing insights to help athletes succeed across industries.

→ Admission | Exhibit + Sponsor

SAT/SUN | July 18–19

Athletes Make The Best™ Experiences
Explore our curated directory of athlete-owned and athlete-led destinations—where to work, live, play, and stay. From community-driven developments to high-energy watch parties, these experiences fuel economic vitality and build community wealth.
→ Submit a Listing | Sponsor the Guide

Planning Your Visit

Athletes Make The Best™ Entrepreneurs + Small Business
Showcasing athlete-owned and led ventures. From capital to capability-building, connect with funding, grants, and growth tools—whether you're launching or scaling.
→ Features | Become a Partner

Athletes Make The Best™ Hotels + Resorts
Explore athlete-owned and led hotels redefining hospitality. From wellness escapes to business stays, these destinations reflect purpose, discipline, and drive.
→ Features | Become a Partner

Athletes Make The Best™ Food + Beverages
Discover athlete-owned and led brands delivering bold flavor and purpose. From performance snacks to heritage wines, these ventures blend hustle and heart.
→ Features | Become a Partner