Algerian Officials Cut Off Question About Imprisoned French Journalist

Algeria's communication director, Said Fellak, abruptly ended a press conference question regarding the imprisonment of French sports journalist Christophe Gleizes. The incident occurred just before the 16th-round match between Algeria and Switzerland. When asked about Gleizes's fate by the press, Fellak firmly stated, "Please, let's stay on the match."

Christophe Gleizes, a journalist for the publication So Foot, was arrested in May 2024 in Kabylie, northeastern Algeria, while working on a report about a local football team. He was subsequently sentenced in June 2025 to seven years in prison on charges of "apology of terrorism." His situation has been a source of diplomatic tension between France and Algeria, although recent efforts have aimed at improving relations since February.

Earlier in June, Gleizes's lawyers announced that the judicial process in Algeria was complete, paving the way for President Tebboune to grant him a presidential pardon. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who had accredited Gleizes for the World Cup, expressed hope for a presidential pardon that would allow the journalist to attend the tournament.

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Please, let's stay on the match.