CAF president Patrice Motsepe has confirmed that the 2026 WAFCON (Women’s Africa Cup of Nations) will take place in Morocco as originally planned, dismissing speculation about a possible change of host.
Uncertainty had emerged in recent weeks following reports that Morocco could reconsider its hosting role after the events surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. South Africa was said to be monitoring the situation and ready to step in if needed. However, Motsepe clarified that there will be no alteration to the venue or the tournament calendar.
Speaking after a CAF Executive Council meeting, he reaffirmed the confederation’s commitment to Morocco as hosts and stressed that the competition dates cannot be adjusted.
“There are discussions taking place, and there are a lot of competitions. Morocco came to assist because there were many countries that wanted to host it, but because we didn’t have time, our standards were very high,” he said at CAF’s Executive Council Meeting presser.
“There are still many countries that are interested. As we speak now, we still have engagements with Morocco because some of the other countries say they want to host it, but want the date changed.
“We can’t change the date because it’s one of those qualifiers for the Women’s World Cup.
“The WAFCON continues, it’s going to be successful, and we will make sure it takes place within the window,” Motsepe added.
The 2026 WAFCON is scheduled to run from March 17 to April 3 and will serve as a qualification pathway for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Defending African champions Nigeria’s Super Falcons will be aiming to extend their dominance by chasing a record 11th continental title.
As part of their preparations, the Super Falcons are set to compete in the West African Football Union B Four Nation Tournament in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from February 27 to March 7, 2026. The mini tournament will feature four West African teams that have already secured qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
With CAF maintaining its stance and Morocco confirmed as hosts, preparations for the tournament are expected to continue without disruption as participating nations intensify their build up to the continental showpiece.
