Fanatics Fest is set to host an extensive soccer lineup this summer, including appearances by international soccer star David Beckham and captains and coaches from the 2026 World Cup final. The event, organized by Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin, will take place from July 16-19 at the Javits Center in New York City.
Beckham is scheduled to participate in a panel discussion with Kaká on the second day of the festival. Other notable soccer figures, such as Jozy Altidore and Rio Ferdinand, are also expected to attend.
In a unique offering, the captains and coaches of the two teams that reach the 2026 World Cup final will conduct a press conference at the festival on July 19, previewing their championship match scheduled for MetLife Stadium.
Rubin described the soccer-centric programming as a significant draw for both media and fans. "You’re going to have press and tens of thousands of fans there," Rubin stated in an interview. "It’s going to be incredible."
The inclusion of the World Cup final press conference at Fanatics Fest came about after FIFA representatives attended last year's event. They proposed moving the festival to mid-July, coinciding with the World Cup finals weekend, in exchange for hosting the press conference. "If this were a repeat of ’22,” Rubin said, “you’d have Mbappe and Messi at Fanatics Fest on July 17. That couldn’t be more incredible."
Beyond the soccer focus, Fanatics Fest will feature a wide array of stars from various entertainment sectors. Attendees can expect appearances from figures such as Tom Brady, the starting lineup of the NBA champion Knicks, LeBron James, Jay-Z, Kevin Hart, and Aaron Judge, who will participate in speaking engagements and offer opportunities for photos and autographs.
"The content lineup is incredible," Rubin remarked. "I looked at the content a couple weeks ago, and I was like, ‘This is insane.’"
Single-day tickets for Fanatics Fest are currently available for approximately $80 each.