WAFCON 2026 postponement looms as CAF silent on tournament fate
With less than two weeks until the scheduled kick-off, the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2026) faces imminent postponement amid growing confusion and CAF’s continued silence.
According to multiple sources including Sport News Africa and Jeune Afrique, the Confederation of African Football has decided to move the tournament from its March 17 start date to a new window from July 25 to August 16, 2026. The postponement would place the competition just after the men’s World Cup.
However, no official communication has been issued since reports emerged six days ago, leaving players, supporters, and stakeholders in limbo. Critical preparations—including venue confirmations, accreditation, and officials’ appointments remain unfinished.
Confusion deepened in February when South African Deputy Minister Peace Mabe prematurely announced that South Africa had replaced Morocco as hosts, only for Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie to retract the claim. CAF denied any issues at the time.
The tournament serves as qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, raising stakes for participating nations.
Questions now surround whether Morocco will retain hosting rights or if South Africa which expressed interest could step in for the rescheduled edition.
The silence of the CAF amid the chaos undermines its stated commitment to developing women’s football on the continent. With each passing day of uncertainty, confidence in African football governance erodes further.
