The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will no longer take place as originally planned, following a decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to push the tournament back to a new window running from July 25 to August 16, 2026.
The competition was originally scheduled to be played in several Moroccan cities from March 17, 2026 to April 3, 2026.
CAF confirmed the rescheduling on Thursday, explaining that the decision was taken due to unforeseen circumstances.
The continental football body said the adjustment was necessary to “ensure the success of this important women’s competition”.
Reports indicate the delay is linked to logistical and hosting concerns surrounding Morocco’s preparations for the tournament.
Morocco’s status as host country is also yet to be fully finalised, with South Africa already expressing readiness to step in if Morocco is unable to stage the competition.
The tournament remains the main qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
The top four teams at the competition will qualify directly for the global tournament.
The 2026 edition will also be historic as it expands to a 16-team tournament, increasing from the previous 12-team format.
The previous edition of the competition also experienced scheduling adjustments.
The tournament, officially tagged “WAFCON 2024”, was eventually held in July 2025 in Morocco to avoid a clash with the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons won that edition after defeating hosts Morocco 3–2 in the final.
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