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 eventual champions set to pocket a record $2 million as the governing body continues its drive to elevate women’s football across the continent.
CAF said on Wednesday that the champions in Morocco will earn $2m, a 100% rise on the winners’ cheque from the 2024 tournament, which was staged in 2025, making it the richest reward in the competition’s history.
CAF confirmed on Wednesday that the tournament’s total prize fund has also been significantly increased from $3.475 million to $5.8 million, a rise of 67 percent.
The runners-up will receive $750,000, reflecting a 50 per cent increase, while the third-placed team will earn 43 per cent more than at the last edition.
In another boost, each of the 16 participating nations will be guaranteed $150,000 in participation fees, up from $125,000, providing greater financial support for all teams competing at the finals.
CAF said the latest review underscores its commitment to accelerating the growth of women’s football and rewarding excellence on the continent.
The governing body noted that, under its current leadership, the champions’ prize has increased by an unprecedented 900 percent, rising from $200,000 to $2 million, while the overall prize fund has grown by 495 percent, from $975,000.
The federation also highlighted the expansion of the tournament from 12 to 16 teams as part of wider efforts to improve competitiveness, increase opportunities for more nations, and enhance the global profile of African women’s football.
Morocco will host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations from 26 July to 16 August, with the continent’s leading teams battling for continental glory and the largest prize purse ever offered in the tournament.
The record financial package is expected to further strengthen investment in women’s football, encourage greater competitiveness among participating nations, and reinforce CAF’s ambition to position African women’s football among the world’s elite.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
