Upcoming Events
IMGL 2026 Spring Conference
April 29 - May 1, 2026
Overview
IMGL 2026 Spring Conference
Get ready — the IMGL Spring 2026 Conference is coming to The Ritz Carlton, Pentagon City, Arlington, VA from April 29 – May 1, 2026.
This isn’t just another industry event. It’s where the world’s top gaming attorneys, regulators, and thought leaders gather to shape the future of global gaming. Expect powerhouse keynotes, deep-dive panels on everything from AI to esports, exclusive networking receptions, and a gala dinner you won’t forget.
Why IMGL? Because it’s the preeminent organization for gaming attorneys worldwide — known for unmatched expertise, substance over sales pitches, and a global perspective that sets the standard for the industry. IMGL’s Spring Conference will be where the gaming law community meets to shape the future of gaming law and regulation.
✨ Save the dates. Book your spot. Come see why IMGL is the conference you can’t afford to miss.
🌸 About Washington, D.C. in April
Springtime in the nation’s capital is simply magical! By late April, D.C. bursts to life with cherry blossoms, sunny skies, and mild temperatures — perfect for exploring the city between conference sessions.
- Iconic Sights: Take a stroll along the Tidal Basin, visit the monuments on the National Mall, or explore the world-class Smithsonian museums.
- Outdoor Fun: Mild weather makes it ideal for guided bike tours, riverfront walks, or even a casual picnic beneath blooming cherry trees.
- Food & Drink: From Michelin-starred restaurants to vibrant local eateries, D.C.’s culinary scene has something for every taste.
- Culture & Events: Enjoy live music, theater, and spring festivals that showcase the city’s energy and diversity.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a D.C. veteran, April is the perfect month to experience the city’s beauty, history, and vibrant culture — all just minutes from The Ritz Carlton in Pentagon City.
✨ Fun Fact: If you time it right, you might even catch the peak cherry blossom bloom, a sight that draws visitors from around the globe.
This is more than just a conference trip — it’s a chance to combine professional growth with a memorable springtime adventure in one of the world’s most iconic cities!
Registration
Registration can be found here
| IMGL Conference Fees | Early Bird Rate Until 03/01/26 |
Standard Rate 04/02/26 & after |
| IMGL Members | $1,300.00 | $1,400.00 |
| Educators/Regulators/Tribal Gov’t Members | $750.00 | $750.00 |
| Non IMGL Members | $1,550.00 | $1,650.00 |
| Guests (Social Events Only – No Conference Sessions) |
$250.00 |
$300.00 |
DELEGATES: Those wishing to attend conference sessions must register as a delegate. Please choose the delegate category that is appropriate for you. Delegate registration includes all conference sessions, Opening Reception, conference luncheons, Gala Dinner, and the IMGL Closing Reception.
GUESTS: Please register your guest(s) at the same time you register as a delegate. Guest registration includes the Opening Reception, Gala Dinner, and the Closing Reception. Guest registration does not include conference sessions or luncheons.
CONFERENCE CANCELLATION POLICY:
Cancel by March 1: receive 100% refund.
Cancel between March 1 -March 31: Receive 50% refund.
Cancel between April 1 – April 22: receive 25% refund.
No refunds starting on or after April 23.
Sponsorships
Sponsorships are now available for this conference. For information on becoming a sponsor for this event, contact Brien Van Dyke at brien@imgl.org or Phil Savage at phil@imgl.org
Sponsorship packages will be available soon.
Additionally, we have our Annual Sponsorship options which can be found here. Our annual sponsorships are a great way to bundle your benefits for both 2026 conferences!
Annual 2026 Sponsors
Annual Platinum Sponsor
Annual Gold Sponsor
Annual Silver Sponsors
DC 2026 Sponsors
Gala Dinner Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Supporting Sponsors
Schedule
Wednesday, 29 April
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Member Meeting
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Opening Reception
Thursday, 30 April
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Registration & Continental Breakfast
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Opening Remarks & Welcome from IMGL President, Marc Dunbar
BLOCK 1 – iGAMING: REGULATION, GROWTH & RESPONSIBLE EXPANSION
9:15 AM – 10:15 AM
State-by-State iGaming Landscape: Lessons from Recent Rollouts
Comparative analysis of U.S. state legalization, licensing models, tax frameworks, and enforcement trends since 2023–2025. Case studies of successful and struggling markets, key takeaways for operators and regulators.
Moderator: Jeff Ifrah
Speakers:John Pappas, State Advocacy Director, iDEA
Brandt Iden, VP Gov Affairs, Fanatics Betting & Gaming
David Rebuck, Consultant, Rebuck Consulting, LLC (former New Jersey regulator)
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Offshore, Onshore, Convenience Store – Illegal Gambling and Enforcement Options
This panel will discuss the three major veins of illegal gambling: offshore operators bringing web-based games; domestic entities running online sweepstakes games; and the continued proliferation of illegal slots across the US. Multi-agency coordination and enforcement strategies.
Moderator: Josh Kirschner
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
IP, Advertising and Platform Liability in iGaming
Advertising restrictions, affiliate ecosystems, platform responsibility for third-party content, and cross-border marketing compliance. Recent enforcement actions and best practices.
Moderator: Cosmina Simion
Speakers: Patricia Lalanda, Partner, Loyra
12:30 PM – 1:45 PM
IMGL Luncheon
BLOCK 2 – PREDICTION MARKETS: LEGAL STATUS, PRODUCT VARIANTS & INEGRITY
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
From Sports Betting to Political Markets: Legal and Ethical Boundaries in Prediction Markets
Explore the regulatory distinctions between prediction markets and traditional gambling, with attention to U.S. federal and state issues. CFTC oversight, commodities law implications, and the debate over event contracts.
Moderator: Ali Bartlett
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
What Does Online Wagering on Horse Racing have in Common with Kalshi and the Tribes?
A discussion of Churchill Downs Tech Init Co. v. Michigan Gaming Control Board et. al, the Interstate Horse Racing Act and state and federal court holdings as to pre-emption and where a bet is placed. With Churchill and the Prediction Markets arguing pre-emption, and states finding for and against the “hub and spoke” model analysis of where a bet is placed, do the states stand to lose control over gaming within their borders? Could these cases up-end state regulatory bodies?
Moderator: Laura D’Angelo
6:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Gala Dinner
Hay Adams
Friday, 1 May
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Continental Breakfast
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Day 2 Welcome & Recap
BLOCK 3 – THE UNSTOPPABLE RISE OF TECHNOLOGY AND ITS IMPACT ON THE GAMING INDUSTRY
9:15 AM – 10:15 AM
The Legal Future of Generative AI in Gaming Products
With GenAI being used to create narratives, avatars, even odds-setting tools, the legal framework is still catching up. IP ownership, licensing, regulatory compliance, fairness concerns, and player protection.
Moderator: Garrett Barlow
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Cybersecurity & Incident Disclosure: New Rules for Operators
Evolving cybersecurity requirements for gaming operators. Incident disclosure obligations (SEC, state regulators, international). Best practices for breach prevention, response, and cyber insurance.
Moderator: Bob Fontaine
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Data Privacy in a Borderless Gaming World
Navigating conflicting regimes (GDPR, U.S. state privacy laws, Latin American frameworks) when operating a multi-jurisdictional gaming platform. Cross-border data transfers, localization requirements, and player data rights.
Moderator: TBD
12:30 PM – 1:45 PM
IMGL Luncheon
BLOCK 4 – NEW AND EMERGING JURISDICTIONS & MARKETS
2:00 PM – 2:45 PM
Global Frontiers: Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia iGaming Entry Strategies
Market sizing, localization, payment rails, and regulatory friction when expanding internationally. Cultural considerations, responsible gaming, and building local partnerships.
Moderator: Tomas Enrique Garcia Botta
2:45 PM – 3:30 PM
Geopolitics, Trade, and Gaming Regulation
How global trade agreements, sanctions, and international relations shape emerging gaming markets. Currency controls, repatriation challenges, and navigating geopolitical risk.
Moderator: Kate Lowenhar-Fisher
3:30 PM – 3:40 PM
Closing remarks and conference wrap up
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Closing Reception
Events
Accommodations
🏨 Hotel & Booking Information
We are pleased to offer attendees a special IMGL group rate at the Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City — the host venue for the Spring 2026 Conference.
📅 Booking Window:
April 27 – May 2, 2026
This extended window allows you to arrive early, stay through the weekend, and make the most of your time in Washington, D.C.
💲 Exclusive Conference Rate:
$359 per night
Rate does not include applicable taxes.
⏰ Reservation Cut-Off Date:
March 27, 2026
Rooms at this rate are limited and expected to sell quickly — we strongly encourage you to reserve your accommodations well in advance to guarantee availability.
Enjoy exceptional comfort, premium amenities, and the convenience of staying onsite for all conference programming and networking events.
Book your room here
Speakers
See and Do
🌸 Top Things to See & Do in Washington, D.C. – April Edition
- Cherry Blossom Viewing at the Tidal Basin
- Don’t miss the iconic pink blooms, perfect for photos or a relaxing walk.
- Monuments & Memorials
- Visit the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and World War II Memorial.
- Smithsonian Museums
- Free world-class museums including the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of American History, and National Museum of Natural History.
- National Zoo
- See giant pandas, elephants, and other wildlife — spring is ideal for a zoo visit.
- Georgetown
- Stroll the historic streets, shop in boutique stores, or enjoy riverside dining.
- The U.S. Capitol & Library of Congress
- Explore the stunning architecture and take guided tours of America’s legislative heart.
- Arlington National Cemetery
- Just across the river, pay respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and watch the Changing of the Guard.
- Outdoor Activities & Parks
- Bike along the Capital Crescent Trail or walk through Rock Creek Park for a nature escape within the city.
- Spring Festivals & Events
- Check local calendars for cherry blossom festivals, live music, and art exhibitions.
- Food & Drink Experiences
- Enjoy seasonal menus at trendy restaurants, rooftop bars, or the historic Eastern Market for local flavors.
- Kennedy Center Performances
- Catch a spring concert, theater show, or cultural performance at this iconic venue.
- Potomac River Cruise
- See D.C. from a different perspective with a scenic boat tour along the river.
Tip: April is perfect for exploring outdoors, so pack comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings.
Conference brochure + FAQ Page
Read our conference brochure and discover what lies ahead of you in DC.
Explore what lies in store in D.C. in our Conference brochure complete with testimonial video.
