Morocco withdraws from WAFCON 2026 hosting one month before kickoff

African football was thrown into uncertainty on Sunday night after South Africa unexpectedly stepped in to host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following Morocco’s sudden withdrawal just weeks before the tournament’s scheduled kickoff.

The development was publicly confirmed by South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, leaving organisers with barely 60 days—and possibly as few as 43–44 days—to prepare for the continental showpiece.

The abrupt change has placed immense pressure on the Confederation of African Football (CAF), participating nations, and commercial partners.

The 2026 WAFCON was originally scheduled to take place in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, marking what would have been the country’s third consecutive time hosting the women’s tournament.

The decision initially reflected Morocco’s heavy investment in football infrastructure as it prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

However, in a stunning late twist, Morocco impromptu withdrew from hosting duties, despite having recently staged the men’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Neither Moroccan authorities nor CAF have issued an official explanation for the withdrawal.

Speculation has linked the decision to domestic and political tensions following the controversial 2025 AFCON final in Rabat, where host nation Morocco lost to Senegal.

Reports suggest the aftermath included disciplinary concerns, public criticism, and growing internal pressure, though these claims remain unconfirmed.

Speaking at the Hollywoodbets Super League Awards ceremony in Johannesburg, Peace Mabe confirmed South Africa’s readiness to take over hosting responsibilities.

“Tonight, I would like to announce that South Africa will be hosting the 2026 WAFCON,” Mabe said, noting that the tournament also serves as a qualification pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

South Africa is no stranger to hosting elite women’s football.

Banyana Banyana famously lifted the WAFCON trophy on home soil in 2022, and the country continues to position itself as a hub for major sporting events.

In addition, South Africa has tabled a bid to host the 2028 AFCON, signaling a broader long-term strategy.

In interviews with SABC Sports, Mabe stressed that South Africa has the infrastructure, experience, and organisational capacity to deliver the tournament despite the limited preparation time.

She cited the country’s CAF-approved stadiums, recent international events, and hospitality readiness as key strengths.

With the original tournament dates fast approaching, reports suggest WAFCON 2026 could be postponed by up to two weeks to allow adequate preparation time, although CAF has yet to confirm revised dates.

CAF now faces urgent pressure to confirm the final schedule, reassure teams and sponsors, clarify venue allocations, and publicly address Morocco’s withdrawal.

While CAF has historically sanctioned host nations for late withdrawals, observers believe a softer stance may be adopted due to internal dynamics within the federation.

The expanded 16-team WAFCON carries major significance, with four semi-finalists qualifying directly for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, while two more teams advance through inter-confederation playoffs.

Despite stepping down as hosts, Morocco’s women’s national team is still expected to participate, pending CAF’s final confirmation.

Photos

South Africa Women’s National Team