Yang Liwei, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?

According to a credible source, first Chinese astronaut in space Yang Liwei is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the astronaut's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.

UPDATE 23/03/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Why not Liwei 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 60-year-old astronaut, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.

“What makes Liwei 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 astronaut have already been named ‘Chinese Of The Year’ by some major Chinese newspapers and even ‘Suizhong Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Suizhong (Yang Liwei's hometown).

Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year

A representative for the astronaut was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:

“Yang Liwei Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 22 Mar 2026

“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveYang”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 22 Mar 2026

“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Yang Liwei?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 22 Mar 2026

Could 2026 officially be the Year of Yang Liwei?

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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