Michael Rubin
Founder and CEO
Fanatics
Michael Rubin, internet entrepreneur, philanthropist, and social justice advocate, is Founder and CEO of Fanatics, a global digital sports platform that is reimagining the fan experience across fan gear, trading cards, and sports betting. In addition to his entrepreneurial success, Michael is the co-chair of REFORM Alliance, an organization that includes some of the biggest names in sports, business and culture that’s dedicated to eradicating antiquated probation laws. Michael was also the driving force behind Fanatics’ partnership with Make-A-Wish. Named annually as one of the most prominent people in sports business, Michael was the Sports Business Journal “Executive of the Year” in 2022 and has also been named to the Bleacher Report “Power 50” list of most influential people in sports. Michael spent more than a decade as a partner of the Philadelphia 76ers before selling his ownership stake in June 2022 to focus his efforts on Fanatics’ expansion across the broader sports ecosystem.
Speaking in:
Sunday Jan 11
9:15am - 9:45am
Javits North, Level 5
Opening Keynote – Rewriting the commerce playbook: A conversation with Fanatics Founder and CEO, Michael Rubin
Fanatics Founder and CEO Michael Rubin kicks off NRF 2026 with a powerful look at how disruptive strategies are reshaping the future of retail. In a world where consumer expectations shift daily, Michael shares how bold moves in vertical integration, real-time manufacturing, partnerships spanning leagues, teams and athletes globally, and direct-to-consumer agility are redefining how products are created, sold, and experienced. Discover how a fan-first mindset – built on speed, innovation, and emotional connection – is driving a new model for growth across industries.