As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, The Guardian's renowned cartoonist, David Squires, has turned his incisive and witty illustrative eye to the people and narratives fuelling the tournament's long buildup. His latest work captures the unique blend of sporting spectacle, politics, and culture that defines the run-up to next summer's global football extravaganza.
The Art of Football Commentary
David Squires has carved a unique niche in sports journalism, using the power of illustration to comment on the beautiful game where words alone sometimes fall short. His cartoons for The Guardian are celebrated for their sharp insight, humour, and ability to distil complex stories into a single, impactful image. As the football world's focus shifts towards the 2026 World Cup, Squires' work provides an essential, alternative commentary on the unfolding drama.
Fuelling the North American Buildup
The upcoming tournament, set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, presents a rich tapestry of themes for an artist like Squires. His cartoons are expected to explore the intersection of US sports culture with global football, the logistical marvels and challenges of a three-nation event, and the evolving narratives of star players and national teams as they prepare for the biggest stage. The extended format, with 48 teams competing, offers a wealth of new stories and personalities for his pen to capture.
Fans eager to own a piece of this illustrative journalism can purchase prints through The Guardian's dedicated Print Shop. Furthermore, Squires' latest published collection, titled Chaos in the Box, is available now, offering readers a broader compendium of his football-focused art and satire.
A Visual Legacy for a Global Event
The role of cartoonists like David Squires in major sporting events is often understated yet profoundly significant. By providing a visual, often humorous digest of the news, they create a lasting cultural record of the tournament's journey from hype to history. As the countdown to next summer's tournament in North America continues, Squires' illustrations will serve as a unique barometer of the footballing climate, offering perspective, critique, and celebration in equal measure.
His work ensures that the story of the 2026 World Cup is told not just through match reports and punditry, but through the evocative and enduring medium of editorial cartooning, adding a vital layer to the narrative of what promises to be a historic event.
