It's hard to ignore how some stories dominate headlines, yet beneath the surface, there are often surprising details and viewpoints that challenge our assumptions. Welcome to the first Thursday news quiz of 2026—a new year full of fresh beginnings and potential. However, despite the opportunity for a clean slate, we find ourselves serving up the same familiar topics, layered with overconfidence and sometimes questionable judgment. This quiz features fifteen questions spanning current events, pop culture, and general knowledge, including the popular recurring segment, “Farther or Nearer with Geordie Alan Shearer.” As always, there are no prizes, but we genuinely enjoy hearing about your performance in the comments section. So, let’s dive in and test your knowledge! And yes, we’re excited to have you participate.
The Thursday News Quiz: Number 229
This week, you may notice that Willow is missing from the lineup. Sadly, she hasn’t been feeling her best lately, and so we’ve made the decision to give her a break from her role as the official dog of the Guardian Thursday news quiz—for now. Rest assured, she’s in good hands and continues to be the adorable and spirited miniature dachshund we all adore. If you believe you’ve spotted a glaring mistake in one of our questions or answers—please make sure you can back it up with clear reasoning and that you’re not simply trying to fact-check a joke—feel free to voice your concerns in the comments below. And if you’re in the mood for some light-hearted entertainment, why not watch Romy’s ‘Love Who You Love’ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHMOYP-L4jc)? It’s a fun watch, perfect for relaxing after the quiz.
Remember, no matter how often we repeat ourselves, the news world keeps evolving, and sometimes the most overlooked details hold the greatest significance. Are you ready to see how well you keep up with the latest twists and turns? Let’s get started—good luck, and enjoy the challenge!
