FIFA Supports Imprisoned Journalist Christophe Gleizes with Symbolic Accreditation for the 2026 World Cup

Paris – 10.06.2026: In a remarkable gesture of solidarity, FIFA has granted the French journalist Christophe Gleizes, who is imprisoned in Algeria, a symbolic accreditation for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. This decision was regarded by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) as a powerful signal of support.

Christophe Gleizes, 37 years old, was arrested on May 28, 2024, in Tizi Ouzou, Algeria, during a report on the football club Jeunesse Sportive de Kabylie (JSK). He was accused of “apology of terrorism” and “possession of publications for propaganda purposes that harm the national interest.” In a first-instance trial on June 29, 2025, he was sentenced to seven years in prison, a decision which was confirmed on appeal on December 3, 2025.

Despite these serious allegations and the long prison sentence, FIFA has now issued a symbolic accreditation for the 2026 World Cup, which will take place from June 11 to July 19 in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. This gesture highlights the importance of Gleizes’ work as a sports journalist and stresses that his true place is not behind bars, but in the stadiums and behind the scenes of such global sporting events.

Thibaut Bruttin, director of RSF, commented on FIFA’s decision: “It reminds us how important it is that this sports journalist, who specializes in football, is not in prison but in the stadiums and behind the scenes of this major worldwide competition.” These words reflect the determination of Gleizes’ supporters in their fight for his release.

Gleizes’ family, especially his parents, have repeatedly appealed for clemency from Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Despite multiple requests, no response has been received so far. However, the recent development—the symbolic accreditation by FIFA—could inject new momentum into efforts toward possible pardon.

This situation shines a spotlight on the challenges journalists face in authoritarian regimes and underscores the importance of international solidarity and support. FIFA’s decision sends a strong message that goes beyond sport, defending the universal values of press freedom and human rights.

The international community, including organizations like RSF and Gleizes’ family, remains resolute in fighting for the journalist’s release. FIFA’s symbolic accreditation could be a crucial step in drawing attention to this case and increasing pressure on the Algerian authorities to grant clemency for Gleizes.