Melbourne's 2026 sports calendar paired a familiar industry gathering with a first for the city: an NFL regular-season game at the MCG. SportNXT announced a 7 to 9 September summit, timed around the build-up to the match between the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers.
The organisers confirmed the dates at a March luncheon at Melbourne Park. Representatives from the Rams joined Australian sporting executives to discuss the city's events calendar and the business behind it.
For SportNXT, the September slot brought the summit closer to the end of the winter football season. Its programme covered the decisions made away from the field, including broadcasting, technology, investment and how clubs reach their supporters.