The big game might be over, but we’re just getting started.
Sports tourism is having a major moment — and at Simpleview Summit 2026, we’re embracing that momentum in a big way. As the travel industry increasingly look to sporting events as a driver of economic impact, community engagement, and year‑round visitation, our experts are preparing to bring the data, insights, and experiences that matter most to destination marketing organization (DMO) leaders.
From a crowd-pleasing keynote to a post-game closing party inside an iconic sports venue, our industry-leading conference will give attendees front‑row seats to learn how sports continue to shape the future of travel.
Keynote Address: Shaping the Future of Sports Tourism
W
e’re excited to welcome John David, president & CEO of the Sports Events & Tourism Association (Sports ETA), to our main stage for “The State of Sports Tourism.”
David will debut the new 2024–2025 Sports Tourism Data & Trends Report, the most comprehensive look at the sports travel sector ever produced by Sports ETA. This keynote session will explore:
- What’s happening right now in both participatory and spectator sports.
- How shifting traveler behaviors are influencing event strategy.
- Where new opportunities are emerging for destinations.
- What DMOs can do to compete more effectively in sports tourism.
Whether your destination already has a strong sports portfolio or you’re just beginning to build one, this keynote delivers insights you can immediately put to work within your travel technology ecosystem.
The MVP Host City for Sports
Atlanta, Georgia, is no stranger to big games, big moments, and big wins. As one of the strongest sports cities in the country, the city hosts major events — including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the College Football Playoff National Championship, MLS Cup, NCAA Final Four, and a full calendar of professional, collegiate, and youth competitions.
Attendees will experience firsthand a destination where sports play a vital role in shaping identity, driving economic activity, and building community pride, making it an ideal environment for conversations about the future of the industry.
Celebrate at the College Football Hall of Fame
We’re keeping the sports energy going all the way through the closing night party at the College Football Hall of Fame.
This immersive venue brings the spirit, history, and excitement of college football to life, creating a memorable setting for networking, celebrating, and closing out the conference with your peers. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore interactive exhibits, unique experiences, and a lively atmosphere that reflects the passion at the heart of sports tourism.
