Football fans in Côte d'Ivoire have expressed anger at the Ivorian Football Federation after the national team’s official social media accounts failed to acknowledge the birthday of Ivorian legend Didier Drogba.

Drogba, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers the country has ever produced, celebrated his birthday on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. However, supporters noticed that the federation made no post to mark the occasion.

The frustration quickly grew when fans pointed out that the federation had instead shared a birthday message for the wife of national team head coach Emerse Faé. For many supporters, the decision was seen as disrespectful toward a player who played a monumental role in putting Ivorian football on the global map.

Analysis of Semenyo’s performance against Real Madrid

Supporters flooded the federation’s pages with criticism, accusing the organization of failing to properly honor one of the country’s greatest football icons. Many fans suggested that if international organizations and football pages could recognize Drogba’s birthday, the country’s own federation should have done the same.

Others implied that the situation reflects a wider issue of the federation not giving enough recognition to past legends who helped build the reputation of Ivorian football.

Drogba remains a towering figure in the nation’s sporting history, having captained the Elephants for years and cemented his legacy during his decorated club career, particularly with Chelsea.

For many fans, the silence from the federation on such a symbolic day was seen as an unnecessary snub toward a player they still consider a national hero.



FKA/MA

Also, watch as Black Stars legends light up the pitch and roll back the years at the Monday Stars game