At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a powerful and symbolic gesture has been taking place during every France match. Inside the press box, one seat is intentionally left empty. This silent act serves as a reminder of French sports journalist Christophe Gleizes, who is currently imprisoned in Algeria and unable to cover the tournament he was meant to attend.
Gleizes, a respected journalist known for his work with the Paris-based football magazine So Foot, was sentenced in 2025 to seven years in prison on charges related to supporting terrorism. His case has sparked widespread concern and criticism, particularly among journalists and human rights advocates in France and beyond. Many believe his imprisonment raises serious questions about press freedom and justice.
In response, French journalists’ unions have strongly called on Algerian authorities to release Gleizes. They argue that his detention is unjust and emphasize his long-standing contributions to sports journalism, especially his focus on African football. His reporting has been widely appreciated for shedding light on underrepresented stories within the sport.
The show of solidarity at the World Cup has been both visible and meaningful. Before France manager Didier Deschamps addressed the media ahead of their match against Senegal at the New Jersey New York Stadium, journalists in attendance held up scarves bearing the message “Free Gleizes.” This public display highlighted the unity among members of the media and their determination to keep his case in the spotlight.
The symbolic empty seat is not limited to the press box alone. During France’s official news conferences, an unoccupied chair is also deliberately placed to represent Gleizes’ absence. It serves as a constant visual reminder of the journalist who should have been present, asking questions and reporting on one of football’s biggest events.
Gleizes’ mother, Sylvie, has traveled to the United States during the tournament in an effort to raise awareness about her son’s situation. Her presence at the World Cup adds a deeply personal dimension to the campaign. She has been actively speaking to media outlets, sharing her concerns about her son’s well-being and urging authorities to reconsider his case.
According to Sylvie, Gleizes’ accreditation for the 2026 World Cup had already been approved. She revealed that FIFA president Gianni Infantino personally authorized his credentials, further underlining that Gleizes was expected to be part of the global media covering the tournament. His absence, therefore, is not only a professional loss but also a stark reminder of the circumstances preventing him from doing his job.
Sylvie also described how her son feels isolated and disconnected while in prison. She explained that he feels “cut off” from the outside world, unable to engage with the profession he is passionate about. Her words have resonated deeply with fellow journalists, many of whom see Gleizes’ situation as emblematic of broader challenges faced by reporters in certain regions.
The football community has also shown its support. During a recent press conference, French journalist Vincent Duluc, who works for the sports daily L’Equipe, posed a question to Didier Deschamps on behalf of Gleizes. The question concerned hydration breaks during matches, a routine topic that Gleizes himself might have raised if he were present.
Deschamps responded with empathy and hope, stating that he wishes for Gleizes to be reunited with his family and colleagues as soon as possible. He added that he hopes the journalist will soon be able to attend press conferences in person and ask his own questions once again. His remarks reflected the shared sentiment within the football world.
The decision to leave an empty seat and chair throughout France’s World Cup campaign has become a powerful symbol of solidarity. It demonstrates how sport can be used as a platform to highlight important issues beyond the pitch. While the World Cup is primarily about competition and celebration, moments like these remind audiences of the human stories connected to the game.
Moreover, this gesture has attracted global attention, ensuring that Gleizes’ case is not forgotten amid the excitement of the tournament. It underscores the role of journalists in covering sports and the importance of protecting their rights and freedoms. Without reporters like Gleizes, many stories from around the football world would go untold.
The ongoing support from journalists, football officials, and fans alike continues to build pressure for a resolution. While it remains uncertain what the outcome of Gleizes’ case will be, the solidarity shown during the World Cup has already made a significant impact in raising awareness.
Ultimately, the empty seat stands as a quiet yet powerful protest. It symbolizes not only the absence of one journalist but also the broader struggle for press freedom and justice. As France continues its journey in the tournament, that empty space will remain a constant reminder of Christophe Gleizes and the hope that he will soon regain his freedom and return to the profession he loves.
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