ISPO will start a new era and will take place in 2026 with a new concept, on a new date and at a new location. To this end, Messe München has now entered into a joint venture with the British Raccoon Media Group.
The move is more than a change of venue. It also means a new concept consisting of a C-suite level conference and a traditional trade fair, with significant investment in content, retail and CSR, reflecting a profound transformation of the sports ecosystem which reflects a broader transformation within the sports ecosystem: faster innovation cycles, changing markets, and the need for new ways of connecting brands, retailers, and creators.
ISPO aims to bring this dynamic together – earlier in the season, closer to the markets, and more focused on relevance, collaboration, and inspiration. In addition, next year’s sports trade fair will be brought forward by four weeks to November 3-5, 2026. The parties involved are not revealing any details about the new joint venture, except to say that “Racoon will take the lead, with Messe München as a strategic partner,” according to Harald Kirchschlager, executive director of Corporate Strategy & Development, Messe München, in an interview with TextilWirtschaft, a sister publication of The SPIN OFF, also part of DFV Group.
We are incredibly proud to lead ISPO into its next chapter. By combining ISPO’s tradition with our community-oriented approach, we are creating an event that not only reflects the future of the sports and outdoor industry, but also actively shapes it and bring it back to its former glory.”
Mike Seaman, CEO, Raccoon Media Group
“For too long, ISPO has been run with the head and has lost some of its heart. We are restoring the balance – by making smart, strategic decisions while restoring the passion, determination, and community that made it great. The industry needs a platform that unites voices, protects the places we move in, and inspires the next generation of brands, leaders, and companies. That’s exactly what we want to offer,” explained the manager.
Exhibitors will benefit not only from a more favorable date, but also from an internationally accessible trade show location. The organizers want to strengthen ties with the North American market in particular. Above all, however, Seaman announces an improved cost structure. “Every exhibitor will save money,” he said.
“With the strategic realignment of ISPO, we are continuing to develop our long-established leading trade fair in a targeted and effective manner. There is strong demand for a platform that promotes innovation, exchange, and business opportunities,” said Kirchschlager.
The venue will be the RAI Exhibition Center in Amsterdam. Another sports trade fair organized by the Raccoon Media Group will premiere there next week. The International Running Expo, featuring 200 exhibiting running brands, will take place on November 4 and 5. This new B2B trade fair will be integrated into Ispo next year, Seaman announced.
Harald Kirchschlager and Mike Seaman seal the decision
