The Economist - 2026 cover

[Puma]

Is there any indication of continued interventionism on the cover of 2026? It would appear not, although other opinions may differ. However, the US elections could change control of Congress halfway through Trump's presidential term, and Brazil will hold general elections where another left-wing government could fall.

Continuing with an exercise in apophenia, could this be why there is a geographical marker on the side of what would be the Americas and an ice cube further down (Patagonia)?

The first prediction on the cover may have come true, because yes, the geographical marker is located in the Americas, specifically where Venezuela should be, and a tank threatens the region. Central America further north appears to be in flames.

The world ahead is now in motion

 

[Puma]

A post on X suggests that the cover can be split into 4, each part representing a quarter of the year 2026.

Others suggest that the cover can be divided like a clock or calendar.

For example, Maduro's kidnapping and the events in Minneapolis occurred in hour or month one. Maduro commonly used the raised fist as a symbol of Bolivarian resistance. On the other hand, Minneapolis is a Democrat or blue state. Given the events in Minneapolis, Trump accused Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey of "inciting insurrection."

The Iranian chapter would begin in February.

Around hour/month six, we see the soccer player and the first of two large syringes. The FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 11, 2026. The absence of a stadium suggests to some that the tournament may be suspended, possibly due to war, pandemic or boicot. In fact former FIFA president Joseph backed a proposal to boycott World Cup matches in the United States because of the conduct of President Donald Trump and his administration both at home and abroad.
​