Sports
AIMExpo 2026 and Supercross Team Up for Historic Powersports Industry Week in Anaheim
IRVINE, Calif. (FNN SPORTS) – For the first time in history, the American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) will run in conjunction with the kickoff of the 2026 Monster Energy SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) and Round 1 of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross season. The landmark collaboration will take place in Anaheim, California, creating an action-packed week that unites the business of powersports with the thrill of elite racing.
AIMExpo 2026 will be held January 7–9 at the Anaheim Convention Center, while Supercross Round 1 will roar to life Saturday night at Angel Stadium. This strategic alignment offers the entire powersports industry a unique opportunity to connect, network, and experience the full scope of the sport – from trade show floors to championship race tracks.
“It’s not often that the entire powersports industry can get together, so when we do, the AIMExpo team wants to make sure it’s electric,” said Andre Albert, Director of Marketing and Events for the Motorcycle Industry Council. “This collaboration with Round 1 of Supercross, the most iconic race of the year, brings two major forces together in a way that’s never been done before, giving the whole industry more reasons to get excited and show up.”
The partnership with Feld Motor Sports speaks to the industry’s growing appetite for immersive, all-encompassing experiences that merge business with the powersports lifestyle.
“Feld is a huge part of our industry,” Albert continued. “Supercross is not only a cultural cornerstone of motorcycling, it’s also where we can see our vehicles, parts, and accessories being put to use at the highest levels. For the industry to watch products go from the exhibit floor to the racetrack in the same few days – that’s a rare showcase of the complete powersports ecosystem.”
Credit: Feld Motor Sports
Dave Prater, Vice President of Supercross, added: “There’s no better way to kick off the 2026 season than with AIMExpo and the support of the powersports industry in Anaheim. We’re excited to connect with so many industry professionals during this important week and look forward to hosting invited AIMExpo exhibitors and attendees for an exclusive Friday night event where they can get up close and personal with Supercross.”
Cinnamon Kernes, Vice President of Market Expansion for the MIC, summed it up: “This is what makes AIMExpo more than a trade show. We’ve worked hard to create an experience that connects the dots between business, culture, and community – and that’s exactly what this event delivers.”
New team will debut at the Yuengling Center in summer 2027 as fans help shape the franchise’s identity
TAMPA, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — UPSHOT League officially announced the arrival of professional women’s basketball in Tampa Bay, with the new franchise scheduled to begin play at the Yuengling Center in summer 2027.
UPSHOT Tampa branding unveiled as the league prepares for its inaugural 2027 season in Tampa Bay. Image courtesy of UPSHOT Tampa.
Owner Morgan Busby introduced the vision behind bringing elite women’s basketball to the region, while Garland Cooper was announced as team president. UPSHOT Deputy Commissioner Taj McWilliams-Franklin also joined the launch alongside local leaders as the organization emphasized community involvement, fan experience and competitive excellence as core parts of the franchise.
FAN INVOLVEMENT: The Tampa franchise does not yet have an official team name. Fans are being invited to submit ideas and take part in helping shape the team’s identity ahead of its inaugural season. Season-ticket deposits and founding membership opportunities are also available.
UPSHOT Tampa President Garland Cooper speaks with media following the announcement of Tampa Bay’s new professional women’s basketball franchise. Photo courtesy of UPSHOT Tampa.
Community outreach began immediately with a “Shoe a Day” initiative supporting young athletes in the Tampa Bay area. During media availability, Cooper also spoke about the importance of giving young girls an opportunity to see what is possible through professional women’s sports.
Hillsborough County Administrator Bonnie Wise and Advisory Board Chair Kathleen Shanahan were among the community leaders in attendance, highlighting the potential economic and social impact of adding another professional sports organization to the region.
INAUGURAL SEASON: UPSHOT Tampa is scheduled to tip off at the Yuengling Center in summer 2027, adding professional women’s basketball to an established Tampa Bay sports market that already includes the Buccaneers, Lightning and Rays.
The team name, branding and additional franchise details are expected to be announced as the organization continues building toward its first season.
– Nisey Spruill is a reporter and photojournalist for Florida National News (FNN), covering major news, sports and special events across Florida and nationwide. Contact sports@FloridaNationalNews.com
