By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
The Confederation of African Football has reaffirmed that Morocco will host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with CAF President Patrice Motsepe publicly dismissing speculation that South Africa could replace the North African nation.
Motsepe made CAF’s position clear amid growing uncertainty over hosting arrangements, emphasizing continuity and commitment to Morocco.
“The WAFCON continues, we still have an engagement with Morocco.”
The CAF president also addressed broader concerns about potential disruptions to the tournament schedule, stressing the importance of maintaining the competition’s role within the global football calendar.
“We can’t change the date because it’s part of the qualification pathway for the Women’s World Cup.”
His remarks effectively rule out any late changes to hosting or scheduling, reinforcing Morocco’s status as the confirmed venue.
While acknowledging interest from other countries, Motsepe reiterated that CAF’s existing commitment remains unchanged.
“There are still many countries that are interested, but we still have engagements with Morocco.”
This clarification puts to rest weeks of speculation linking South Africa with a possible hosting takeover.
Morocco’s position as host aligns with its growing influence in African football. In addition to WAFCON 2026, the country is also set to stage the upcoming Africa U-17 Cup of Nations, further cementing its reputation as a reliable host for major continental competitions.
The decision provides stability for teams preparing for the tournament and ensures continuity in planning for one of Africa’s premier women’s competitions. WAFCON remains a critical platform for development and a pathway to global tournaments, including the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
With CAF’s stance now clearly articulated, focus shifts to tournament preparations and qualification across the continent.
For Morocco, the confirmation represents both an opportunity and a responsibility, to deliver a successful tournament that reflects the continued growth of women’s football in Africa.
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