CAF doubles WAFCON prize money ahead of 2026 tournament
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has doubled the prize money for the winners of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with the champions now set to receive $2 million.
CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe announced the increase during the federation's global press conference in Johannesburg on Wednesday, describing it as another major step in the continued growth of women's football across the continent.
The prize money has risen significantly under Motsepe's leadership, climbing from $200,000 when he assumed office to $1 million at the last edition, and now to $2 million for the 2026 tournament.
"We've increased the prize money of the WAFCON. It's unbelievable," Motsepe said. "When I became president, the winners received $200,000. We raised it to $1 million, and now they will receive $2 million. Our commitment to women's football must be backed by tangible actions, not just promises."
Motsepe also addressed concerns over the scheduling of CAF's women's competitions after the last two WAFCON tournaments were postponed. The 2026 edition was moved from its original March window to July after Morocco was unable to host it earlier in the year.
While admitting that improvements could be made, the CAF president defended the decision to retain Morocco as hosts despite interest from other countries.
"We could have done better, but we made the right decision by not taking the tournament away from Morocco," he said. "We must always act ethically and with principle."
He added that the revised schedule created an opportunity for CAF to secure a substantial increase in prize money while giving the competition greater visibility.
The 2026 WAFCON, scheduled for July 26 to August 16, will make history as the first edition to feature 16 teams, following the expansion from 12 nations.
Beyond the continental title, the tournament carries even greater significance, as the four semi-finalists will secure automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, raising the stakes for every team competing in Morocco.
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