The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has dismissed the national team’s physician, Dr. Abderahmane Fediore, following controversy over his qualifications as a gynecologist in the aftermath of Senegal’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The decision comes after Senegal’s dramatic Round of 16 defeat to Belgium, where the Teranga Lions surrendered a two-goal lead in the closing minutes before eventually losing after extra time.
Following the tournament, the federation also parted ways with head coach Pape Thiaw, citing disappointing performances and criticism over his tactical decisions.
Attention has since shifted to the team’s medical department.
According to Reuters, FSF President Abdoulaye Fall said an internal review found that Fediore, who had served as the team’s doctor since 2017, was originally trained as a gynecologist.
He said players lacked confidence in team doctor Abderahmane Fediore’s ability to handle their medical needs. He claimed Fediore was not adequately qualified for the role, prompting the federation to bring in additional medical personnel to support the squad during the World Cup.
“Players were not sufficiently reassured about being supported by him, the federation had to bring in additional medical personnel during the tournament to address concerns over player care.”
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Association of Sports Medicine’s Rejection
However, the Senegalese Association of Sports Medicine has strongly rejected the federation’s claims, describing them as “unfounded and defamatory.”
The association maintained that Fediore possesses a specialist diploma in sports medicine and sports biology from Cheikh Anta Diop University and had previously headed the physiotherapy department at Fann Hospital.
“He holds a specialist diploma in sports medicine and sports biology,” the association stated in defence of the physician’s professional qualifications.
Despite the association’s backing, the federation has confirmed that Fediore will no longer serve as the national team’s doctor, bringing his nearly nine-year tenure with the Teranga Lions to an end.
