Matteo Renzi, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?
- By Elizabeth Sy
- Rome
- Last updated on
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According to a reliable source, the former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the politician's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.
UPDATE 17/12/2025 : This story seems to be false. (read more)
Why not Renzi for Person of the Year?
The list of nominees for Time magazine’s Person of the Year is always an eclectic mix of world leaders, pop culture icons, buzzworthy names, and human rights activists. The unexpected inclusion of the 50-year-old politician, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.
“What makes Renzi so important is the potential and influence he now has, rather than anything he has already done,” said a panelist who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that earlier this month, the politician have already been named ‘Italian Of The Year’ by some major Italian newspapers and even ‘Florence Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Florence (Matteo Renzi's hometown).
Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year
A representative for the politician was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:
“Matteo Renzi Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 16 Dec 2025
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveMatteo”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 16 Dec 2025
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Matteo Renzi?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 16 Dec 2025
Could 2026 officially be the Year of Matteo Renzi?
Still, TIME’s editors will make the final decision about who will grace the magazine’s cover as its 2026 Person of the Year.
Who do you think should be TIME’s Person of the Year for 2026?
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