CAF shifts 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations to July

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has postponed the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) from March to July, citing the need to allow more time for preparations.

In a statement released on Thursday, the football body said the tournament, originally scheduled to take place from March 17 to April 3 in Morocco, will now be held between July 25 and August 16, 2026.

According to CAF, the decision followed consultations with its partners, including FIFA, as well as other stakeholders involved in organising the competition.

“After discussions between CAF and its partners, FIFA and other stakeholders, CAF decided to reschedule the dates of the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON 2026 to 25 July – 16 August 2026 to ensure the success of this important women’s competition in light of certain unforeseen circumstances,” the statement said.

Delay ends speculation over tournament readiness

The postponement comes amid uncertainty about whether the competition could begin as originally planned, especially as key arrangements had not been finalised.

Less than two weeks before the initial kickoff date, several organisational processes, including media accreditation for journalists, were still unresolved, raising doubts about the tournament’s readiness.

CAF Expands WAFCON to 16 Teams Ahead of 2026 Tournament in Morocco

Despite the delay, CAF said preparations for the tournament are continuing and expressed confidence that the competition will be successful when it eventually kicks off in July.

“Preparations for the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON 2026 are underway, and all the parties are confident that it will be very successful,” the confederation said.