AAPEX will feature several high-profile sports figures at its 2026 event in Las Vegas, adding a series of autograph sessions and photo opportunities to this year’s show program.
Show organizers announced that former athletes from professional basketball, baseball, football, soccer and motorsports will appear during the three-day event, which runs Nov. 3-5.
Among the confirmed guests are:
- Mia Hamm, former U.S. soccer star and two-time Olympic gold medallist.
- Grant Hill, seven-time NBA all-star and current vice-chairman of the Atlanta Hawks.
- Jimmie Johnson, seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Fame member.
- Randy Johnson, Hall of Fame pitcher and five-time Cy Young Award winner.
- Barry Sanders, Pro Football Hall of Fame running back and former Detroit Lions star.
“We’ve put a lot of effort into improving the business benefits of AAPEX for exhibitors and attendees over the years,” said Mark Bogdansky, vice-president of trade shows and community engagement for the Auto Care Association. He said the show has focused on educational sessions, hands-on training and exhibit hall improvements, while also expanding entertainment offerings for attendees.
The announcement said at least one celebrity will appear on each full day of the show, with as many as four celebrities scheduled for the event’s final day. A detailed appearance schedule will be released closer to the event.
The announcement follows an earlier confirmation that former Duke University basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski will serve as the keynote speaker for the AAPEX 2026 Keynote Breakfast.
“A common theme between these celebrities and the automotive aftermarket is that they are all competitors who found a way to win,” said Liz Goad, vice-president of events for MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. “Automotive aftermarket professionals have good reason to attend the show for business purposes, but we’re still aiming to improve the experience every year; AAPEX 2026 will be a tradeshow nobody wants to miss.”
