From Touchdowns to Goals: Texas, the World Cup, and the Future of Football
An Exclusive Event for Brand Marketing and Sports Leaders.
Texas doesn’t just host events—it builds legacies. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the Lone Star State is stepping onto the global stage as a major sports hub.
But how can this moment be leveraged to grow the game, expand fan bases, and create lasting impact?
Major events do more than draw crowds—they shape the future. From soccer to rugby to American football, the UK and USA have much to learn from each other. This event brings together industry leaders to explore how Texas can redefine its place in the sports world and surpass traditional markets like New York and Los Angeles.
AGENDA
Bridging the Game: Texas’ Playbook for Hosting the World
Speaker:
🎤 Janis Burke, Former CEO, Harris County - Houston Sports Authority
From Touchdowns to Goals: Texas, the World Cup, and the Future of Football
Texas is gearing up to take center stage for the FIFA World Cup, playing a pivotal role in shaping soccer’s future in the U.S.
But what will it take to cement Texas as the beating heart of the sport—both on and off the pitch?
Join UK Advertising and the American Advertising Federation for an exclusive panel featuring industry leaders from both sides of the Atlantic. Together, we’ll uncover the strategies that will define Texas’ World Cup moment—and its lasting impact on the sport’s future in the U.S.
Speakers:
🎤 Megan Lindon – Senior Director, Brand & Merchandise, Austin FC
🎤 SJ Luedtke – CMO, Houston Dynamo
🎤 Michelle Tierney – Chief Revenue Officer, B-Engaged
🎤 Beth Johnson – Co-Founder, Umbrella
🎤 Moderator: Nate Thompson – Co-Founder, HTX Sports Tech
Game Plan: Turning Insights into Action
Go beyond the conversation with interactive breakout discussions designed to spark meaningful connections between U.S. and UK industry leaders.
Join us for The Sunday Roast at 2pm as our guest. - food, drink and entertainment by a special guest provided.
SPEAKERS
Sorcha Gordon, Co-Founder T.E.A.M Houston, AAF Houston – Programs Chair
Megan Lindon – Senior Director, Brand & Merchandise, Austin FC
SJ Luedtke – CMO, Houston Dynamo
Michelle Tierney – Chief Revenue Officer, B-Engaged
Beth Johnson – Co-Founder, Umbrella
Nate Thompson, Co-Founder, HTX Sports Tech
Expect insider insights on:
Unlocking cross-market opportunities
Harnessing sports’ influence to drive brand growth
Innovating in fan engagement
Who Should Attend?
Brand and Marketing Leaders looking to harness the power of sports for audience engagement
Sports Executives & Team Representatives keen on expanding their reach in new markets
Host City Officials & Event Organizers preparing for major sporting events and looking to maximize their long-term impact
Media & Sponsorship Professionals exploring opportunities in the evolving sports landscape
Business Leaders & Investors interested in the commercial impact of the FIFA World Cup and beyond
Spots are limited—register now to be part of this exclusive discussion.
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