World Cup 2026 Press Freedom Issues Highlighted by French Journalist Detention and US Immigration Harassment

FIFA granted accreditation to French journalist Christophe Gleizes, who has been imprisoned in Algeria since 2024 on terrorism‑related charges, allowing him to cover the 2026 World Cup. The move is intended to increase international pressure on Algerian authorities for his release.

Brazil’s National Federation of Journalists (Fenaj) reported several cases of intimidation and racial profiling experienced by reporters covering the tournament in the United States, including TV Globo’s Karine Alves, who was subjected to a harsh immigration screening. Fenaj is urging FIFA to adopt safeguards that ensure safe, non‑discriminatory conditions for all media personnel during the event.