Sports journalist Mathieu Istace has been appointed as the new head of communication and content for the Royal Belgian Football Association. He will also serve as the press attaché for the Belgium national team, the Diables Rouges, starting September 15. The federation made the announcement on Tuesday.
Istace, 41, replaces David Steegen, whose collaboration with the Belgian FA began in March 2025 and ended on August 24. The new appointee arrives as the Red Devils, top of their 2026 World Cup qualifying group with 5 points, prepare for their next fixture.
Mathieu Istace brings nearly two decades of media experience to the Belgian FA. He has worked primarily for the production company Woestijnvis. Throughout his career, he has commentated on football matches as well as cycling and cyclo-cross races for broadcasters like RTBF, RTL, and Proximus Pickx. He was notably the face of major cycling classics on RTL. Since 2025, he had also held a coordinator role at Play Sports.
In a statement, Istace expressed his delight. "I am thrilled to take on this wonderful opportunity, which will allow me to continue combining passion and work", he said. He added, "Thanks to my professional experiences so far, I have been able to live incredible moments at club football level, but working within the Belgian football federation and in direct contact with our national teams motivates me immensely."
Istace's appointment comes at a key time for the national side. The Red Devils are engaged in 2026 World Cup qualification. Their current record shows 6 goals scored and 2 conceded, a +4 goal difference. However, the team has lost its last two matches, including a 2-1 defeat to Spain on July 10. Their recent form over the last five outings is three wins and two losses. Midfielder Amadou Onana is currently sidelined.
As head of communication and press attaché, Mathieu Istace will be the primary liaison between the national team, the media, and the public. He will oversee the URBSFA's content strategy and manage press relations during Red Devils gatherings. His experience in front of and behind the camera will be an asset in presenting the federation's and the team's activities.
His arrival marks a shift in the media management of the Belgian national team. The first concrete milestone for the new appointee will be the away trip to Italy, scheduled in three weeks' time on September 25, 2026.
