CAF ban: 2026 WAFCON faces possible postponement

The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) could be postponed following a formal request from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Morocco, the tournament’s host nation, has cited severe fixture congestion within its domestic football calendar as the main reason for seeking a delay.

According to the FRMF, the country is currently unable to host the competition as scheduled next month due to mounting logistical and operational challenges as reported by BSN.

The Moroccan top flight, the Botola Pro, has already suffered multiple disruptions in recent months. These delays stem from Morocco’s heavy involvement in major international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the African Nations Championship (CHAN), and the Arab Cup, all of which have placed additional strain on stadium availability, security arrangements, and match scheduling.

With pressure continuing to build, the FRMF has formally requested that CAF reschedule the women’s tournament to a later date, allowing sufficient time to stabilise domestic competitions and ensure proper hosting conditions for WAFCON.

CAF is yet to release an official statement on the matter, but sources indicate that consultations are ongoing as the continental body considers a revised timetable for the championship.

The potential postponement carries significant implications, as the 2026 WAFCON also serves as a qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The four teams that reach the semi-finals will earn automatic qualification, making the competition a crucial gateway for African nations aspiring to compete on the global stage.

Earlier, CAF issued a series of disciplinary sanctions against the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) following incidents during the final of the AFCON 2025.

CAF has not disclosed all operational details; the governing body stated that the actions of team officials and players contributed to behaviour deemed incompatible with CAF statutes and competition regulations.