Yes, you can absolutely lose your Delta Medallion status in 2026 if you do not meet the annual qualification requirements. Delta's status is earned on a "calendar year" basis (January 1 to December 31). To maintain status for the following year, you must earn a specific amount of Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) through flight spending or eligible credit card purchases. If you fail to reach the threshold for your current tier (Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond), your status will expire on January 31 of the following year, and you will either drop to a lower tier or lose elite status entirely. However, in 2026, Delta continues its "Reclaim My Status" program. If a major life event—such as a new child, a serious medical issue, or a career change—prevented you from traveling, you can apply to have your status temporarily restored for 90 days. If you meet a smaller MQD goal during that trial period, you get to keep your status for the remainder of the year. Additionally, once you hit "Million Miler" milestones, you earn Lifetime Medallion status, which can never be lost.