The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially confirmed Morocco as the host nation for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), dismissing recent speculation about a change in venue.
The announcement, made by CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe during a media briefing in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, directly countered reports suggesting Morocco was preparing to withdraw from hosting duties. Those reports had indicated South Africa was on standby to replace Morocco. Dr. Motsepe described the withdrawal rumours as unfounded.
This confirmation provides certainty for the tournament, which is scheduled to be played from 17 March to 3 April, 2026. Those dates remain unchanged, according to the CAF President.
Morocco’s appointment continues the nation’s emerging role as a key destination for women’s football in Africa. The North African country successfully hosted the previous two editions of the WAFCON, in 2022 and 2024, demonstrating its capacity to stage the continent’s premier women’s national team competition.
The 2026 WAFCON carries added significance as it will serve as the direct qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The four teams reaching the semi-final stage in Morocco will secure their places at the global finals.
By reaffirming Morocco as host, CAF ensures continuity in its strategic development of the women’s game. The decision supports the continent’s football federation’s goal of providing consistent, high-profile platforms for its teams, while also linking continental achievement directly to global competition. The focus now shifts to the upcoming qualifiers and final preparations for what will be the third consecutive WAFCON staged in Morocco.
