The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, has confirmed that Morocco will host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as originally scheduled, dismissing speculation about a possible postponement or change of venue.
Speaking after a CAF Executive Committee meeting in Dar es Salaam, Motsepe said the 16th edition of the tournament will take place from March 17 to April 3, 2026, in Morocco. He addressed rumours surrounding the hosting rights, explaining that although several countries had shown interest in staging the competition, Morocco stepped in at a crucial time to ensure continuity.
“There is discussion taking place, and a lot of competitions. Morocco came to assist. There were many countries that wanted to host it, but because we didn’t have time and our standards were very high. The WAFCON continues, as we speak now, we still have an engagement with Morocco,” he said.
Motsepe also clarified concerns about possible date adjustments, stressing that the schedule remains fixed in alignment with FIFA regulations. According to him, the tournament forms part of the qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, making any alteration to the timeline impractical.
“We can’t change the date because it is part of the qualification pathway for the Women’s World Cup. WAFCON will continue and it will be successful,” he added.
The 2026 edition will feature an expanded 16-team format and will mark the third consecutive time Morocco hosts the competition, following the 2022 and 2024 tournaments. Although South Africa had indicated readiness to step in if required, CAF has reaffirmed its commitment to the Moroccan venue.
In a related development, Motsepe announced that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will be held every four years after 2028, instead of the previous two-year cycle. He also revealed that the tournament could be expanded from 24 to 28 teams, although no definitive timeline has been set for the increase.
The AFCON was expanded from 16 to 24 teams in recent editions, with the participating nations divided into six groups of four. Motsepe did not provide details on how an additional four teams would be accommodated in the proposed 28-team format.
CAF currently has 54 member associations, meaning a 28-team tournament would include more than half of its members. Motsepe said the changes are aimed at enhancing competitiveness, giving more nations the opportunity to participate at the highest level, and accelerating the growth of African football.
He reiterated his confidence in the future of the continental game, expressing optimism about upcoming tournaments and the continued development of football across Africa.
