Morocco Prepared to Host WAFCON at Any Moment Amid Postponement Uncertainty

Postponement Mystery Persists

Three weeks following the abrupt postponement of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the reasons behind the delay remain unclear. A senior member of the Moroccan government has indicated that the country stands ready to host the event “at any time.”

Initially scheduled to commence on March 17, the tournament has now been rescheduled to take place from July 25 to August 16. Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, commented to BBC Sport Africa regarding the postponement, stating, “That was a decision made at the Confederation of African Football (CAF). What I know is Morocco is always ready to host any competition, any time, and we will be very proud and happy to host it, be it this month or within three months.”

In recent years, Morocco has become a pivotal location for African football, hosting numerous continental competitions, including the last two WAFCON events, the Women’s Champions League, and various age-level African tournaments.

Recent Turmoil in African Football

The last men’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), held in Morocco, concluded under contentious circumstances when Senegal players protested refereeing decisions. Although they later resumed play, Senegal initially won the match, only for CAF to overturn the decision due to an appeal from Morocco’s football federation.

CAF’s disciplinary committee had faced criticism for its handling of the situation, prompting Morocco’s football authority to express dissatisfaction with the sanctions imposed, which included a five-match ban for Senegal’s head coach, Pape Thiaw.

While it’s been suggested that Morocco’s packed football schedule contributed to the postponement of WAFCON, the ambiguity surrounding the decision has been compounded by CAF’s brief statement, indicating “unforeseen circumstances” while involving “partners, FIFA and other stakeholders.”

Political Dimensions and Player Concerns

The political climate has also raised questions about WAFCON. In February, South African Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie was compelled to clarify assertions made by his deputy regarding the possibility of South Africa stepping in as host for WAFCON. McKenzie affirmed that South Africa remains open to assisting CAF if hosting arrangements need revision.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe stated that multiple nations have expressed interest in hosting the tournament but were unable to modify the schedule, insisting, “We can’t change the dates.” This stance contrasts sharply with previous instances when WAFCON dates have been adjusted, leading to accusations that women’s football is not a priority within the regional football governance.

The 2020 WAFCON was entirely canceled, while the 2024 edition faced a similar fate of postponement, further highlighting the challenges faced in organizing women’s football events. Teams, such as Ghana, were left preparing for a tournament that was suddenly delayed with only a handful of days’ notice.

Ashleigh Plumptre, a defender for Nigeria, emphasized the lack of urgency given to women’s football, reflecting on the ongoing frustrations among players regarding the situation.

Planning for Future Events

Looking ahead, Morocco is also in preparation to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, marking the second occasion an African nation will host the tournament since South Africa’s inaugural hosting in 2010.

While authorities await official confirmation regarding hosting this year’s WAFCON, insiders from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) claim they expect Moroccan venues will be ready in July. Maintaining hosting rights would require any decision from CAF to strip them to be formalized.

In reference to the recent AFCON, Minister Mezzour acknowledged the challenges faced during the tournament but expressed pride in how security measures were implemented, stating, “We always learn what to deliver from events, be it in Morocco or outside Morocco.”

As Morocco navigates these uncertainties, the outlook remains hopeful for continued engagement in international football events that could spur economic growth and infrastructure advancements across the country.