The basics:

• Newark to host soccer, tech and media summit July 10
• Event precedes FIFA Club World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium
• Hosted by HBSE with support from NJEDA and Gov. Murphy
• Topics include AI, fan engagement, streaming and investment

Timed with the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, a major sports technology and media summit is coming to the Garden State.

The Global Game: The Future of Soccer, Tech and Media Summit takes place July 10 at Prudential Center in Newark. The day will feature future-focused discussions as well as networking.

“This summit reflects the next wave of innovation in global sports,” said Greg Kahn, CEO of GK Digital Ventures and event co-founder. “It’s about more than soccer — it’s about how technology is reshaping everything from how we play to how we connect with fans around the world.”

Key things to know:

• July 10 summit precedes FIFA Club World Cup Final, which takes place July 13 at MetLife Stadium
• Presented in collaboration with Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment with support from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority
• Employs overall theme of “Innovation at the Intersection of Soccer, Media, and Technology”
• Will feature top soccer executives, investors, team owners, media executives, tech leaders, athletes and more
• Topics include: AI-driven performance, fan engagement, streaming innovation and the expanding global footprint of soccer
• Moderators and panelists confirmed, so far, include senior leaders from HBSE, Disney, U.S. Soccer, Paramount/CBS, Fanatics, TEG Sport North America and the FIFA World Cup 2026 NYNJ Host Committee

Organizers say the “landmark event” spotlights the state’s growing role as a hub for global sports, media and technology innovation.

“As New Jersey steps onto the global stage – hosting the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and 2026 World Cup Finals – we are excited to welcome The Global Game: The Future of Soccer, Tech & Media Summit to the Garden State,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “As one of the premier locations for world-class sporting events and technology innovation, we are proud to welcome the world’s best minds to our state to explore the future of the industry.”

HBSE Chief Executive Officer Tad Brown said that the convergence of sports, media, and technology has never been more powerful.

“Our entire organization is very thankful for the collaboration with Gov. Phil Murphy, the NJEDA, and Greg Kahn on this monumental summit,” said Brown. “We are confident that the discussions taking place here in Newark on July 10th will play an important role in shaping the future of the sport – and its business.”

Kicking off

The Club World Cup gets underway this weekend. Earlier this week, the 2026 World Cup Host Committee announced the region’s Fan Fest, coming to Liberty State Park during next year’s event.

These major developments have increased local buzz for the high-profile soccer tournaments coming up over the next two years.

“As momentum builds towards the FIFA World Cup in 2026, events like this reflect the kind of forward-thinking energy that defines our region,” said NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry. “New Jersey isn’t just hosting eight matches, including the world’s biggest game – we’re helping shape the global conversation around the future of soccer.”

Murphy added, “New Jersey is where cutting-edge technology, creative storytelling, and passion for sport come together, building the next generation of content and experiences.”

“The NJEDA is proud to sponsor this inaugural summit, which is an opportunity to connect New Jersey’s global spots ecosystem with its thriving innovation economy – opening new doors for investment and job creation,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan.

Kahn said, “I’m proud to partner with HBSE and the NJEDA to make New Jersey the launchpad for these conversations and collaborations.”

Further details on the event and how to get tickets are available here.