
Zidane, newly appointed France coach, expresses support for journalist Gleizes detained in Algeria
Zinédine Zidane, recently named coach of the French national football team, addressed the detention of French journalist Christophe Gleizes in Algeria during his introductory press conference. Zidane stated, "I am a parent, I just want him to go home to see his family," emphasizing his support for Gleizes' return. He clarified that his statement was a personal one, rooted in his role as a parent, rather than a diplomatic stance, aligning with the French Football Federation's support for Gleizes and his family. Christophe Gleizes was arrested in May 2024 in Tizi-Ouzou while reporting on JS Kabylie and subsequently sentenced to seven years in prison for "apology of terrorism," a sentence upheld in late 2025. His case has become a focal point in the strained relations between France and Algeria. Recent developments include his transfer to a prison near Algiers in January 2026, facilitated by Ségolène Royal, president of the France-Algeria Association, to ease family visits. In May 2026, Gleizes' mother, Sylvie Godard, announced that her son would forgo his appeal to the Court of Cassation, opting instead to rely on the clemency of President Tebboune, a move described by his family as a symbolic act in hopes of a presidential pardon.



