LAS VEGAS — AAPEX 2026 is raising the bar for this year’s Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo by combining world-class business opportunities with appearances from some of the biggest names in sports. Organizers announced that legendary athletes from soccer, basketball, NASCAR, Major League Baseball and the NFL will appear throughout the event, giving attendees opportunities to meet their favorite stars while exploring the latest innovations shaping the automotive aftermarket.
The annual trade-only event returns to Las Vegas this November at the Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum. Every year, thousands of automotive professionals travel from around the world to discover new products, build relationships and learn about emerging technology. This year, however, attendees will also enjoy a variety of entertainment experiences designed to make the event even more memorable.
Legendary athletes join the AAPEX lineup
One of the biggest announcements for AAPEX 2026 is the addition of several Hall of Fame athletes and championship winners who will appear during the four-day event.
Soccer icon Mia Hamm headlines the celebrity lineup. She helped transform women’s soccer during her remarkable international career, winning two FIFA Women’s World Cups and two Olympic gold medals. ESPN has also recognized her as one of the greatest female athletes of the modern era.
Basketball fans will have the chance to meet Grant Hill. During his 19 NBA seasons, Hill became a seven-time NBA All-Star and a two-time NCAA champion. Today, he serves as Vice Chairman of the Atlanta Hawks while also leading USA Basketball’s Men’s National Team.
Motorsports legend Jimmie Johnson will also attend AAPEX. Johnson captured seven NASCAR Cup Series championships, including five consecutive titles. Since retiring from full-time NASCAR competition, he has raced in INDYCAR and earned induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
Baseball Hall of Famer Randy Johnson will also appear at the show. Known throughout baseball as “The Big Unit,” Johnson won five Cy Young Awards, made ten All-Star appearances and became one of the most dominant pitchers in Major League Baseball history.
Rounding out the celebrity lineup is NFL legend Barry Sanders. The Hall of Fame running back remains one of football’s greatest players and continues supporting charitable organizations while managing several successful business ventures.
New features improve the attendee experience
Although the celebrity appearances will attract plenty of attention, organizers say business remains the top priority.
This year, AAPEX introduces several improvements that will help exhibitors and buyers connect more efficiently. The new AAPEX Forum creates a better-organized exhibit hall, allowing attendees to discover products, meet suppliers and schedule meetings with greater ease.
In addition, visitors can participate in technical training sessions, educational seminars and hands-on demonstrations throughout the event. These programs are designed to help repair professionals, retailers, warehouse distributors and manufacturers stay current with rapidly changing automotive technology.
More entertainment throughout the show
Visitors will also notice a fresh look across the show floor. Museum-style displays featuring famous vehicles will celebrate automotive history, while highway-inspired signage will reinforce this year’s theme, “Where the industry gets real.”
Attendees can enter daily prize drawings, including a chance to win a brand-new Ford F-150. Celebrity autograph sessions and photo opportunities will take place each full day of the event, with Thursday featuring the largest number of appearances.
Earlier this year, organizers also announced that legendary Duke University basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski will deliver the keynote address during the AAPEX 2026 Keynote Breakfast.
Registration now underway
Registration for AAPEX 2026 is now open. Automotive aftermarket professionals can register for $75 through Sept. 25. After that date, registration increases to $100.
Each year, AAPEX welcomes approximately 2,500 exhibiting companies representing the global $2.3 trillion automotive aftermarket industry. As the show continues to grow, organizers believe this year’s combination of education, networking and celebrity appearances will deliver one of the strongest events in AAPEX history.
Event Information
Dates: November 3–6, 2026
Location:
Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum
Las Vegas, Nevada
Website: https://www.aapexshow.com
Registration: $75 through Sept. 25; $100 after Sept. 25. Complimentary registration is available for qualified media and vocational students.
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