FIFA has granted media accreditation for the 2026 World Cup to French sports journalist Christophe Gleizes, who remains imprisoned in Algeria, in a move that has drawn renewed attention to a case criticized by press freedom advocates.
Gleizes, known for his reporting for So Foot and Society, received accreditation to cover the tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada and Mexico. However, he will be unable to attend the competition unless he is released from custody.
The journalist was arrested in May 2024 while reporting in Algeria’s Kabylia region. His work focused primarily on football, including coverage of JS Kabylie, one of Algeria’s most prominent clubs, as well as broader issues related to Algerian football.
Algerian authorities later charged Gleizes with “glorifying terrorism” and possessing publications deemed harmful to national interests.
Following his arrest, Gleizes was placed under judicial supervision before standing trial in the city of Tizi Ouzou. On June 29, 2025, he was sentenced to seven years in prison. The sentence was later upheld by the Tizi Ouzou Court of Appeal, leaving him in detention.
With few remaining legal avenues available, his family has appealed for a presidential pardon from Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
Press freedom groups, including Reporters Without Borders, have condemned the prosecution, arguing that Gleizes was engaged in legitimate journalistic work and should not have faced criminal penalties for his reporting activities and professional contacts.
While FIFA’s accreditation does not affect his legal status, it has elevated international awareness of the case at a time when global attention is focused on the World Cup.
Supporters view the accreditation as a symbolic gesture highlighting the contrast between Gleizes’ profession and his current circumstances. Rather than reporting from the tournament, they note, the journalist remains behind bars.
As the 2026 World Cup gets underway, the accreditation is expected to keep Gleizes’ case in the public spotlight and may add pressure on Algerian authorities to reconsider his situation as calls for his release continue.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.