The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will be expanded from 12 to 16 teams starting with the 2026 edition.
The move is aimed at accelerating the growth of women’s football across the continent.
Initially, next year’s tournament in Morocco was set to feature 12 teams. But the new format means CAF will likely introduce an additional qualification round to accommodate the expanded lineup.
Eleven countries remain in contention for four available slots in the next stage of qualifiers.
The final details expected to be announced following the CAF Executive Committee meeting in Kinshasa.
WAFCON began in 1998 with just eight teams.
The first major expansion happened in 2022 after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 edition.
That 2022 tournament in Morocco also marked a turning point for women’s football in Africa.
The continent’s football governing body increased the prize pool by 45% to $3.45 million.
Champions Nigeria took home $1 million after clinching their record 10th title.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe described the decision as part of a broader plan to professionalize women’s football on the continent.
“Part of my starting point is making sure [men and women] are paid well and they can make a career out of football.
“I can assure you women’s football will continue to improve because that is an area we are focussing on a lot.”
