Senegal football doctor's gynecologist background sparks controversy

A controversy has erupted in Senegal after the president of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), Abdoulaye Fall, revealed that the national men's football team doctor for years, Abdourahmane Fédior, is a trained gynecologist. This revelation follows the Lions of Teranga's elimination from the 2026 World Cup.

Fall stated at a press conference that the head of medical services "does not have the necessary academic training to attend to our athletes." He added that some players "did not have full confidence" in Dr. Fédior, making it necessary to find "convincing experience" for their peace of mind, as "health is above all else."

However, Fédior vehemently rejected the federation president's statements, expressing "indignation" over what he called "falsehoods" regarding his professional career. He asserted that he obtained his "diploma in sports medicine specialist" in 2008 and was part of the first cohort for that training. While admitting gynecology was his initial specialty, Fédior emphasized his early career shift towards sports medicine, with extensive work alongside clubs and national teams since the 1980s.

The Senegalese Association of Sports Medicine (ASMS) also defended Fédior, expressing "deep indignation" at Fall's remarks. In a statement, the association confirmed Fédior holds a "diploma of specialized studies in sports and biology medicine" from Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar. They highlighted his role as chief doctor for the senior national team since 2017, participation in five Africa Cups and three World Cups, and his service as an official doctor for the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA.

According to reports, Fédior is considering legal action for defamation against Fall, believing his credibility has been severely damaged. This controversy unfolds amid a crisis for the Senegalese national team, which was eliminated in the round of 16 of the World Cup after squandering a two-goal lead. The federation had already dismissed coach Pape Thiaw, and midfielder Pape Gueye announced he would not play for Senegal under the current technical staff.

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El jefe de nuestros servicios médicos no tiene la formación académica necesaria para atender a nuestros atletas. El doctor Fédior es ginecólogo de profesión.