**Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Previews 2026 Issue Featuring New Faces and Beloved Veterans**
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The long-anticipated 2026 edition of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit is set to celebrate a vibrant blend of fresh talent alongside established favourites. The eagerly awaited issue is scheduled for release in May, teasing audiences with a glimpse of the stunning shoot that has taken place in the picturesque surroundings of Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
Among the new additions to the iconic lineup are reality television star Bethenny Frankel and model Jocelyn Corona, who will join the esteemed ranks of returning models like Ilona Maher, Livvy Dunne, Hunter McGrady, Lauren Chan, Molly Sims, and Haley Kalil. This year’s issue promises a captivating showcase of beauty and athleticism, with each model bringing her unique flair to the camera.
Renowned photographer James Macari captured the vibrant essence of the shoot against the backdrop of Mexico’s crystal-clear waters and breathtaking desert landscapes. Frankel, best known for her role on “The Real Housewives of New York,” made her first appearance in the SI Swimsuit edition during Swim Week in May 2025. At that event, she impressed onlookers with an array of striking outfits, including a notable denim bikini paired with a cowboy hat.
A particularly memorable moment was when Frankel donned a playful polka-dot string bikini, complemented by a sheer black mini sarong. As she strutted down the catwalk, she dramatically removed the cover-up at the end, captivating the audience and capturing her confidence in true style.
Ilona Maher is another major highlight in the upcoming issue. The Team USA rugby sevens bronze medalist has made a strong impression on the franchise, having debuted on the cover of a digital issue in September 2024 and subsequently appearing in the print edition for 2025. This year’s feature in Mexico marks her third consecutive appearance in the SI Swim issue, further solidifying her status as a rising star.
Reflecting on her journey, Maher expressed how rugby has empowered her, breaking stereotypes presented by traditional views of femininity. “I was always like, you know, called masculine or whatever,” she said in a previous interview. “But I never felt that way. Rugby showed me what I can do. It showed me how capable my body is and it’s not just like a tool to be looked at and objectified.” Her candid insights speak volumes about the changing narratives around women in sport and beauty.
The 2026 issue will also feature familiar faces from previous editions, such as Brooks Nader. The former contestant from “Dancing with the Stars” first won the Swim Search casting call in 2019 and has become a regular feature in the magazine since then. In 2023, Nader graced the cover after being photographed in the Dominican Republic and has since achieved a status synonymous with the brand’s allure.
As the release date approaches, excitement continues to build within the modelling and sports communities. The combination of innovative new talent and esteemed professionals in the 2026 issue exemplifies Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s commitment to highlighting both diverse figures and different narratives that resonate with a wide audience.
The blend of athletic prowess and modelling artistry reflects an evolution in the fashion and sports industries, celebrating women who break boundaries and redefine beauty standards. With such a dynamic mix of talent, the upcoming issue is poised to showcase the essence of empowerment through creativity and confidence. Fans of the magazine can expect an inspiring visual feast when the 2026 edition finally graces the stands.