Detained French journalist Gleizes accredited for World Cup 2026 by FIFA

Christophe Gleizes, a French sports journalist who has been held in Algeria since May 2024, has received accreditation from FIFA to cover the 2026 World Cup. The international football federation's decision has been welcomed by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) as a significant gesture of support.

RSF described the accreditation as a "strong show of support," highlighting that Gleizes, a football specialist, belongs on the sidelines and in the press areas of major global competitions, not in prison. "This accreditation... reminds us how much the place of this sports journalist specializing in football is not in prison but in the stadiums and behind the scenes of this major world competition," said RSF Director-General Thibaut Bruttin.

Gleizes was arrested in Algeria in May 2024 while reporting on the football club Jeunesse Sportive de Kabylie. Initially under judicial supervision, he was incarcerated in June 2025 after being sentenced to seven years for "apology of terrorism." His parents, Sylvie and Francis Godard, expressed their deep distress over the ongoing situation, stating, "Our son Christophe remains imprisoned." They conveyed their gratitude to FIFA but emphasized their continued appeal for clemency from Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Despite the symbolic accreditation, Gleizes remains in detention. His parents visited him recently, reporting that he was well-treated but felt increasingly isolated. The journalist's legal team announced on June 3 that Algerian courts had rejected a final appeal, clearing the path for a potential presidential pardon. Gleizes' conviction was upheld on appeal in early December, and he withdrew a further appeal in March, hoping to pave the way for clemency.