- Safiu Kehinde
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the postponement of the 2026 edition of the Women African Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
As against the initial March 17 to April 3 schedule, the tournament has now been postponed to a new window between 25th of July and 16th of August.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on the African football governing body’s official website on Thursday.
CAF had, in the statement, cited certain unforeseen circumstances as reason behind the decision which was agreed on following discussions with FIFA and other stakeholders.
“After discussions between CAF and its partners, FIFA and other stakeholders, CAF decided to reschedule the dates of the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 to 25 July – 16 August 2026 to ensure the success of this important women’s competition, in the light of certain unforeseen circumstances,” the organisation said.
The governing body however expressed confidence that preparations for the tournament were progressing and that the event would meet expectations.
“Preparations for the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 are underway and all the parties are confident that it will be very successful,” the statement added.
According to reports, the announcement comes after growing concerns about the readiness of the tournament, with several pre-competition arrangements yet to be finalised before the initial kickoff date.
Key details such as venues for the knockout rounds, accreditation for journalists, match officials and technical workshops had not been confirmed, while promotional activities around the competition were also largely absent.
Meanwhile the postponement will see the Super Falcons of Nigeria have an ample of time to prepare for their title defence having clinched the trophy at the 2025 edition held in Morocco.