The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a landmark decision to expand the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) from 12 to 16 teams, beginning with the 2026 edition—a major step toward growing the women’s game across the continent.

 

CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe confirmed the expansion on Monday, reaffirming the body’s commitment to equality, investment, and opportunity in African women’s football.

 

“I am pleased with the progress we’ve made in women’s African football,” said Motsepe. “Part of my mission is to ensure both men and women are paid fairly and can build careers in football. Women’s football will continue to grow because it remains one of our key focus areas.”

Originally set to host 12 teams in next year’s tournament in Morocco, the new 16-team format will now reshape the qualification structure. With the final round of qualifiers already underway, CAF is expected to introduce an additional qualifying round to determine the final four spots, with 11 nations competing for those positions.

 

The expansion marks another milestone in WAFCON’s evolution. Since its debut in 1998, the tournament featured eight teams until it expanded to 12 for the 2022 edition in Morocco.

CAF has backed its words with action. In the 2022 edition, the governing body increased the total prize money by 45% to $3.45 million. Nigeria, who won a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, took home $1 million, highlighting CAF’s push for financial equity and professionalism in the women’s game.

The move to a 16-team tournament mirrors similar steps taken in other international competitions and reflects the rapid growth of women’s football across Africa, with more federations investing in grassroots development, professional leagues, and talent pipelines.

 

The 2026 WAFCON is now poised to be the largest and most competitive edition yet, offering more nations a chance to shine on the continental stage—and more players the platform to build meaningful football careers.