**Alix Earle Makes Waves as Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Star for 2026**
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In an exciting development for fans of Alix Earle, the social media sensation has made her official cover debut for the prestigious Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition. The 25-year-old influencer, who previously gained attention as the magazine’s first digital cover star in 2024, is now featured alongside prominent personalities including Tiffany Haddish, Hilary Duff, and Nicole Williams English for the 2026 issue.
Earle’s stunning photoshoot took place against the breathtaking backdrop of the Okavango Delta in Botswana, a sprawling and picturesque inland delta nestled within the Kalahari Desert. The vibrant imagery, shot by acclaimed photographer Ruven Afanador, showcases Earle in a striking tan bikini, embodying both confidence and grace as she explores one of Africa’s natural wonders. Sports Illustrated shared snippets of her cover shoot on Instagram, inviting her 6 million followers into the excitement.
In addition to the bikini shots, Earle sported a range of swimwear looks, including a pearl-studded ensemble complemented with knee-high boots and elegant knit pieces. Staying true to her aesthetic, the influencer opted for minimal makeup that highlighted her natural beauty, allowing the serene environment to take centre stage.
Ahead of the magazine’s release on 12 May 2026, Earle shared a candid moment on her social media profile, revealing her anticipation for the SI Swimsuit launch week. Accompanied by a selfie in casual attire, she wrote, “Now off to NYC for SI Swim launch week,” signalling her excitement in connecting with fans and fellow stars alike.
Earle’s journey with Sports Illustrated began two years prior when she made history by becoming the first-ever digital cover star of the publication. At the time, she expressed her elation with a statement saying, “It has been a long-time dream of mine to be on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, and I’m deeply honoured to be named their first-ever digital cover star.”
Reinforcing her status as a rising star, Earle also graced the 2025 issue, where she showcased her dynamic personality further by sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of her photo shoots. Fans enjoyed a sneak peek of her creative process as she posted content on her Instagram Reels. One particular reel, dubbed “Secret mission,” gave viewers an insider’s look at her secretive trip to Jamaica for the 2025 shoot, capturing the excitement and energy that fuels her career.
Alix Earle became a household name through her engaging “Get Ready with Me” videos on TikTok, rapidly propelling her to stardom. Beyond her success in social media, she has also recently launched her skincare line, Reale Actives, further establishing her presence in the beauty industry. With a natural charisma and approach to beauty, Earle continues to inspire her many followers.
The news of her cover announcement has been met with enthusiasm, marking another milestone in her already impressive career. Earle’s candid nature and relatability resonate well with her audience, contributing to her rapid rise within the highly competitive influencer market.
As the release date approaches, eyes will undoubtedly be on Earle and her fellow cover stars as they celebrate not just their individual achievements but also the evolution of sports and beauty representation in mainstream media.