The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a landmark increase in prize money for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with the tournament winner set to receive a record $2 million.
The new figure doubles the champion's reward from the previous edition, while the tournament's total prize fund has risen by 67%, increasing from $3.475 million to $5.8 million ahead of the competition in Morocco.
Record Investment in Women's Football
CAF's latest announcement marks the biggest financial commitment in the history of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations.
The runners-up will now receive $750,000, a 50% increase from the previous edition, while the prize for the third-place finishers has also been significantly raised.
According to CAF, the winner's prize has grown from $200,000 to $2 million under the current administration—an increase of 900% that reflects the organization's long-term investment in the women's game.
Every Nation Benefits
All 16 participating teams will receive guaranteed financial support before a ball is kicked. Each national federation will earn $150,000 for taking part in the tournament, up from $125,000 in the previous edition.
The participation payment is designed to help cover preparation costs, travel, accommodation, and other tournament-related expenses, while teams progressing through the knockout rounds will receive additional prize money based on their final position.
A Historic Tournament Awaits
The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations will be the largest edition in the competition's history.
For the first time, 16 national teams will compete for continental glory after CAF expanded the tournament from its previous 12-team format.
Hosted by Morocco from July 26 to August 16, matches will be played across modern venues in Rabat and Casablanca, showcasing the country's world-class football infrastructure.
Morocco Chasing History
As hosts, the Atlas Lionesses will begin their campaign in Group A, alongside Kenya, Algeria, and Senegal.
After reaching the final in each of the last two editions, Morocco will once again aim to capture its first-ever Women's AFCON title, backed by passionate home support.
The Atlas Lionesses open the tournament against Kenya on July 26 at Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
More Than a Continental Crown
Beyond the record prize money, WAFCON 2026 also carries enormous global significance.
The tournament will determine Africa's representatives at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, with the four semifinalists qualifying automatically, while the losing quarterfinalists will compete for places in the inter-confederation playoffs.
A New Era for African Women's Football
The expanded field, increased financial rewards, and World Cup qualification stakes underline the remarkable progress of women's football across Africa.
With record investment, greater opportunities for participating nations, and another major tournament on Moroccan soil, WAFCON 2026 promises to be the biggest and most influential edition in the competition's history.