Next Level Summit: Gamechangers – Reimagining Sports Media

Today’s sports fans aren’t just watching — they’re streaming, sharing, swiping, and demanding more. As fan behaviors evolve and tech unlocks new frontiers, media companies must balance bold innovation with smart strategy — while also adapting to growing fan bases whose expectations around language, culture and content access are reshaping how sports are delivered. With an unrivaled portfolio of sports across the networks of NBCUniversal, including the NFL, FIFA World Cup, Kentucky Derby, Olympics, Premier League, PGA TOUR and the NBA coming in 2026, top leaders from the company share how they’re future-proofing sports coverage — from investing in emerging platforms to rethinking rights, partnerships and audience engagement. This panel explores the strategic bets driving the next era of sports media. 

You know him as the political numbers wizard in khakis. But did you know NBC News Chief Data Analyst Steve Kornacki has a serious passion for sports? Whether it’s election night or race day at the Kentucky Derby, Kornacki’s love for stats and storytelling makes him the ultimate breakdown artist. Watch as he explains how he brings real-time sports data to life.

What does it take to bring the world’s biggest sports moments to life—live drama, flawless execution and unforgettable endings? Go behind the scenes of events like the FIFA World Cup, Olympics, Paralympics and Super Bowl with the pros who make it happen. From cutting-edge tech to high-pressure storytelling, this panel dives into the logistics, innovation, teamwork and split-second decisions that shape how fans experience the action in a world where culture, language and access influence how fans connect to sports. If you’ve ever been glued to the screen wondering, “How did they pull that off?” this is your all-access pass.

Women’s sports are growing at a meteoric pace and commanding global attention like never before — bringing record-breaking viewership, increased investment and long-overdue recognition. Our fireside chat will examine how the rapid growth of women’s sports is creating transformative opportunities across the industry, from the field of play to the media landscape.

Curious about what it really takes to break into the world of sports media? Join recruiters from NBCUniversal Sports and Telemundo Deportes for an honest, practical conversation about building a career in this competitive industry. Learn what networks are looking for in emerging talent, how to stand out in your applications, and which skills and experiences matter most in today’s evolving media landscape. Bring your questions — this interactive session is designed to set you up for success.