To celebrate the 48 nations competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Sports Illustrated commissioned 48 original covers created by 48 artists from around the world. Each one capturing the identity, culture, and spirit of a competing nation through art. Creative Director, Stephen Skalocky, shares the vision that inspired the ambitious international collaboration, alongside interviews with a selection of the illustrators who brought the covers to life. From concept to creation, discover how football, culture, and creativity came together in one global celebration of the beautiful game.