The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reaffirmed that Morocco will host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), dismissing recent speculation about a possible change of venue.
Speaking after a CAF Executive Committee meeting in Dar es Salaam on Friday, CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe confirmed that the tournament will proceed as scheduled from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
Addressing the rumours surrounding the hosting rights of the 16th edition of the competition, Motsepe clarified that Morocco remains the designated host.
“There is discussion taking place and a lot of competition. Many countries wanted to host it, but because of time constraints and our very high standards, Morocco stepped in to assist,” he said. “The WAFCON continues. As we speak now, we still have an engagement with Morocco.”
Motsepe emphasized that altering the tournament dates is not an option, as WAFCON forms part of the qualification pathway for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“We can’t change the date because it is part of the qualification process for the Women’s World Cup. WAFCON will continue and it will be successful,” he added.
The clarification follows comments by South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, who suggested that her country was prepared to step in as host, citing stadium readiness and experience in organizing major events.
However, South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, later clarified that no formal decision had been made to replace Morocco. He reiterated that Morocco remains the official host nation.
McKenzie explained that South Africa’s willingness to assist was only a contingency measure and that any formal relocation of hosting rights would require CAF approval and government clearance.
The 2026 edition will mark the third consecutive time Morocco has hosted the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, following the 2022 and 2024 tournaments. The competition will also serve as part of the qualification process for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
