The cover of the 12 June edition of the Guardian Weekly magazine features an illustration by Lisa Sheehan. It captures the essence of a monumental event: the World Cup has evolved into an $80bn behemoth. This edition delves into the transformation of the tournament, which has grown bigger and more extravagant with each passing cycle. The upcoming World Cup, set to traverse the United States, Canada, and Mexico over 39 days, is expected to generate $80bn in global economic output. As the world's largest sporting event meets the world's largest market, questions arise about whether the tournament can become any more bloated. Gianni Infantino, the opportunistic FIFA president, has schmoozed with divisive leaders to maximize gains from this global roadshow. Barney Ronay sets the scene, describing it as a journey into the heart of darkness.
Yet the World Cup remains an irresistible spectacle. Over 39 days, 16 host cities, 104 matches, and a 10,000km span, it will demonstrate why it is still the greatest show on Earth. Guardian Sport will cover every game and key talking points, having been named Sports Publisher of the Year at the Sports Journalism Awards.
Five Essential Reads in This Week's Edition
The Big Story: How the Murder of Henry Nowak Shook Britain
The aftermath of a tragedy revealed a country grappling with how easily such events can be co-opted into a far-right rallying cry. Libby Brooks reports on the implications.
Technology: Can Autonomous AI Killer Drones Be Taught Morality?
As technology plays a growing role in modern warfare, an unresolved ethical challenge remains. Dan Milmo and Aisha Down assess the terrain of autonomous weapons.
Feature: Hello, Goodbye: Inside the Final Beatles Tour
By the mid-1960s, the Beatles were ready to quit touring. A new collection of photographs by rock photographer Jim Marshall captures their last gigs, with a foreword by Ian Leslie.
Opinion: Trump's Failure to Maintain Ceasefires Is Part of the New World Disorder
Simon Tisdall argues that US President Trump's casual disregard for diplomacy and obsession with instant results have undermined ceasefires in Ukraine, Gaza, Iran, and Lebanon.
Culture: The Ruthlessness and Redemption of Rupert Everett
The 67-year-old actor has lied to partners, disrespected audiences, and betrayed friends. Simon Hattenstone investigates whether this indiscreet heartbreaker has finally grown up.
What Else We've Been Reading
Fifty years ago this week, the Sex Pistols played their first Manchester gig, upending pop culture and inspiring Joy Division, New Order, the Smiths, the Fall, and the Buzzcocks. Alexis Petridis talks to bands who were left behind when punk exploded. Neil Willis, production editor, enjoyed a niche story about an exhibition dedicated to terrible album artwork, featuring baffling record sleeves that raise the question of whether a bad cover puts you off the music.
Other Highlights from the Guardian Website
- Audio: The jailing of Germany's most wanted woman
- Video: How rapid weight loss can leave you with less muscle and more fat
- Gallery: Pot shot takes top spot in World Food Photography Awards 2026
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