The International Sports Hall of Fame will induct six new members in 2026, celebrating its 15th anniversary with a class that includes a record-setting freediver, a chess grandmaster, and the Harlem Globetrotters marking their centennial.
The induction ceremony is scheduled for September 26 at the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas, aligning with the Olympia weekend. Founder Dr. Robert Goldman, who has overseen the event annually since 2012, described the group as champions whose achievements have inspired millions.
Five athletes and one historic team
The 2026 class features five athletes and one historic team. Senior Vice President Fairfax Hackley said this group stands as the most diverse in the organization’s history, highlighting both athletic excellence and broader contributions.
Vitomir Maričić, a multiple-time world champion freediver, holds the Guinness World Record for the longest voluntary breath-hold underwater at 29 minutes and 3 seconds. This year, he set another record with a 300-kilogram underwater squat. Maričić also advocates for marine conservation and has worked to create protected ocean areas.
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Garry Kasparov, the former world chess champion, dominated the game from 1984 to 2005, reaching a peak FIDE rating of 2851 in 1999—a record that remained unbroken for 14 years. After retiring, he gained attention for matches against artificial intelligence and now leads the Human Rights Foundation, where he promotes democracy and individual freedoms.
Dexter Jackson, known as “The Blade,” is the only bodybuilder to compete in the Mr. Olympia contest 21 times. His 29 professional victories include an upset win over two-time champion Jay Cutler in 2008.
The Harlem Globetrotters, celebrating their centennial in 2026, are recognized for their global impact on sports and entertainment.
Their centennial may draw extra attention to their legacy, as their inclusion alongside elite competitors highlights the Hall of Fame’s approach to honoring both athletic achievement and cultural influence. Such considerations may shape future selections.
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Public event with no ticket required
The induction ceremony is open to the public, though seating may fill quickly due to the high-profile inductees. Previous classes have included Arnold Schwarzenegger, Evander Holyfield, and other global sports figures.
Goldman noted that the Hall of Fame values not only athletic success but also leadership and charitable efforts. “Our inductees are celebrated for their extraordinary achievements and their dedication to giving back,” he said.
Additional details about the event and the Hall of Fame can be found at sportshof.org. Information on the Olympia weekend is available at mrolympia.com.
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