The 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue has officially landed, and it feels less like a legacy magazine launch and more like a cultural reset. In a year where the "millennial queen" comeback is in full swing and TikTok creators are transitioning into global moguls, the 2026 edition manages to capture the exact frequency of the current internet. From a legendary pop star reclaiming her narrative to a Paralympic silver medalist redefining strength, the lineup is a masterclass in modern influence.
This year, the brand moves beyond the milestone of its 60th anniversary (celebrated in 2024) to focus on a "evolutionary" theme. We’re seeing a curated mix of 34 women, including SI Swimsuit 2026 cover stars who represent comedy, music, social media, and sports fashion. If you’ve been wondering who made the cut, where the shoots took place, or how to shop the looks, we’ve done the deep dive so you don't have to.
The 2026 SI Swimsuit Cover Stars: Four Icons, Four Stories
The selection of the four cover models reflects a shift toward multi-hyphenate careers. It’s no longer just about the "look"—it’s about the platform. This year’s covers were revealed live on NBC’s TODAY, signaling the massive mainstream anticipation for this specific roster.
Who are the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover models?
- Hilary Duff: The actor and singer behind the 2026 musical comeback album luck…or something.
- Tiffany Haddish: The Emmy and Grammy-winning actress who makes history as the first comedian on an SI Swimsuit cover.
- Alix Earle: The TikTok titan and Hot Mess podcast host who has officially graduated from digital cover star to print legend.
- Nicole Williams English: The entrepreneur and designer who has become a staple of the "WAG" influence trend.
The wild part? Each cover tells a very specific story. Hilary Duff, photographed by Kat Irlin in South Caicos, used her feature to discuss body acceptance after two decades in the spotlight. Meanwhile, Tiffany Haddish took to Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico, with photographer James Macari. Haddish’s shoot is particularly impactful as it follows her recovery from tearing both menisci; she credited Olympic gold medalist Al Joyner with helping her reclaim her athleticism for the shoot.
Alix Earle headed to Botswana for a safari-inspired photo shoot with Ruven Afanador, cementing her status as the brand’s most successful digital-to-print crossover. Finally, Nicole Williams English returned to the Atlantic coast, posing in Montauk, New York, for her fourth consecutive year with the magazine.
Full 2026 SI Swimsuit Models List: Legends, Rookies, and Athletes
The 2026 SI Swimsuit models list features 34 women categorized by their history with the brand. While the covers get the headlines, the internal pages are where the diversity of the 2026 class really shines.
The 2026 Legends
These are the women who have become synonymous with the SI brand. This year features a heavy hitter lineup of returning favorites:
- Nina Agdal: Marking her 8th year. Since her 2012 Rookie of the Year win, she’s become a health and wellness authority.
- Camille Kostek: Now in her 7th year, the former Swim Search winner traveled to Botswana for this issue.
- Molly Sims: At 52, the legend and YSE Beauty founder proves the brand’s commitment to age diversity. Her partnership with Sephora has recently scaled her skincare empire to new heights.
- Brooks Nader: Returning after her 60th-anniversary cover, Nader shot in Mexico this year while preparing for her acting debut in the Baywatch reboot.
- Jasmine Sanders: The "Golden Barbie" returned for her 8th appearance, shooting in Fort Myers, Florida.
The 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookies
The rookie class is where SI often predicts the next big thing in entertainment. This year’s standouts include:
- Tunde Oyeneyin: The Peloton instructor and Nike athlete was the first rookie announced after winning the 2025 Swim Search.
- Remi Bader: The "realistic haul" queen and mental health advocate brought her 3 million followers to a shoot in Montauk.
- Hannah Berner: The Giggly Squad co-host and Netflix comedian adds a sharp, funny edge to the rookie lineup.
- Gabi Moura: Fresh off the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, the Brazilian model is the one to watch for high-fashion crossover appeal.
- Olandria: The Love Island USA breakout star who has quickly become a Paris and New York Fashion Week fixture.
The Powerhouse Athletes
Sports Illustrated continues to bridge the gap between the court and the camera. This year’s featured athletes include WNBA athletes Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx) and Sophie Cunningham (Phoenix Mercury). We also see Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, the five-time world champion sprinter, and Ali Truwit, the Paralympic silver medalist and shark attack survivor who uses her platform to advocate for disability awareness through her nonprofit, Stronger Than You Think.
Global Destinations: Where Was SI Swimsuit 2026 Filmed?
The SI Swimsuit 2026 locations were chosen to provide a contrast between rugged adventure and classic luxury. If you're looking to plan a trip based on these backdrops, here is the vibe check for each spot:
| Location | The Vibe | Featured Models |
|---|---|---|
| Loreto, Baja California Sur | Lava rocks, crystal blue water, and dramatic desert-meets-sea landscapes. | Tiffany Haddish, Brooks Nader, Molly Sims, Hunter McGrady. |
| Botswana, Africa | High-fashion safari. Earth tones, wildlife, and vast savannahs. | Alix Earle, Camille Kostek, Meredith Mickelson, Penny Lane. |
| Montauk, New York | The "Classic Atlantic." Hamptons luxury at the Hero Beach Club. | Nicole Williams English, Remi Bader, Hannah Berner, Tunde Oyeneyin. |
| Fort Myers & Captiva Island, FL | Tropical Florida sunshine at the South Seas Resort. | Napheesa Collier, Sophie Cunningham, Gabi Moura, Jena Sims. |
| South Caicos | Secluded, untouched Caribbean white sands. | Hilary Duff. |
Behind the Lens: The 2026 SI Swimsuit Photographer List
The creative vision for this year was split among a handful of legendary photographers, each bringing a distinct aesthetic to their respective locations. Ben Watts handled the Montauk shoots, leaning into a high-energy, sun-drenched "American Summer" feel. Ruven Afanador took on the challenge of Botswana, utilizing the natural light of the African plains to create something that feels more like a Vogue editorial than a traditional swimsuit spread.
James Macari was the workhorse of the Loreto, Mexico, shoots. His creative vision focused on the "alignment" of the body with nature, which Tiffany Haddish noted helped her feel like a "goddess" during the shoot. Katherine Goguen captured the Florida contingent, focusing on the athleticism of the WNBA stars and the vibrant energy of the 2026 rookies.
The 2026 Fashion Trends: One-Pieces and High-Waisted Styles
The 2026 issue is leaning heavily into body diversity, and the fashion reflects that. We are seeing a major departure from the "barely there" string bikinis of the early 2010s. Instead, the focus is on structure, silhouette, and "quiet luxury" swimwear.
Shop the Look: Key 2026 Fashion Brands
- Saint Laurent & Dolce&Gabbana: Featured heavily on Tiffany Haddish, these brands provided the bold, structured looks that highlighted her "glow up" physique.
- Vitamin A: Known for sustainable luxury, this brand was a go-to for the more "natural" shoots in Florida and Mexico.
- One-Piece Swimsuits: Hilary Duff’s white plunging one-piece is already trending as the "must-have" item for Summer 2026. It signals a move toward modest-yet-sexy styling.
- High-Waisted Bikinis: A staple for the 2026 rookies, particularly Remi Bader and Erin Marley Klay, emphasizing comfort and confidence.
The Rise of the 'WAG' Influence in 2026
One of the most interesting content gaps in previous years that 2026 fills is the deep integration of the "WAG" (Wives and Girlfriends of high-profile athletes) culture into the fashion space. Nicole Williams English (married to Larry English) and Christen Goff (married to Jared Goff) are no longer just "adjacent" to the sports world; they are the stars.
This trend was solidified in the February digital issue, which featured Brittany Mahomes and Claire Kittle, and it carries over into the print edition. Jena Sims, married to Brooks Koepka, also returns for her third year, proving that the "WAG" label has evolved into a legitimate brand-building platform that SI is eager to leverage.
2026 SI Swimsuit FAQ: Launch, Availability, and Socials
Where can I buy the physical 2026 SI Swimsuit magazine?
The print edition is available at major retailers like Barnes & Noble, CVS, and Whole Foods starting in May 2026. You can also order directly through the Sports Illustrated website. Unlike the 60th Anniversary issue, which had limited print runs, the 2026 issue has a wider distribution to meet the demand for the Hilary Duff and Alix Earle covers.
Will there be a 2026 SI Swimsuit launch party?
Yes, the annual Swim Week in Miami (June 2026) will serve as the official launch pad, featuring a runway show where many of the 2026 rookies, including Gabi Moura and Olandria, are expected to walk.
How does 2026 compare to the 2024 60th Anniversary issue?
While the 2024 issue was a retrospective of the past, the 2026 issue is a roadmap for the future. There are fewer "legacy" cameos and more space given to new-age entrepreneurs. The 2026 issue also features a higher percentage of WNBA athletes than any previous year, reflecting the massive surge in women's basketball popularity.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue features four distinct cover stars: Hilary Duff, Tiffany Haddish, Alix Earle, and Nicole Williams English.
- Tiffany Haddish makes history as the first stand-up comedian to grace the cover.
- The issue features 34 women, including a heavy presence of WNBA stars and Paralympic athletes.
- Shooting locations spanned the globe, from the safaris of Botswana to the lava rocks of Loreto, Mexico.
- The fashion focus for 2026 is on body diversity, with a resurgence of high-waisted styles and luxury one-pieces from brands like Saint Laurent.
- Tunde Oyeneyin (Peloton) and Remi Bader lead a rookie class that prioritizes mental health and fitness expertise over traditional modeling backgrounds.
As we look forward, the 2026 issue proves that Sports Illustrated Swimsuit is no longer just a "magazine"—it’s a multi-platform engine for female empowerment and entrepreneurship. Whether it's Alix Earle launching Reale Actives or Molly Sims scaling YSE Beauty, the women in these pages are using the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue as a launchpad for much bigger things. The "swimsuit model" of the past has officially been replaced by the "mogul" of the future.
