Morocco is hosting 2026 WAFCON due to lack of interest from other countries - Fouzi Lekjaa

Morocco Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa has revealed that the North African nation agreed to host the expanded 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after no other country expressed interest in staging the tournament.

Speaking about Morocco's decision to take on hosting responsibilities, Lekjaa suggested that the country stepped in to ensure the competition proceeds smoothly, citing the nation's readiness to organize major football events.

“We will organize the women’s Africa Cup of Nations because no other country wanted it. We accepted to host it because everything is ready, and we will not lose anything by doing so," Lekjaa told Al Jazeera.

His comments highlight Morocco's growing role as one of Africa's leading hosts of major football tournaments.

In recent years, the country has successfully staged several continental and international competitions, while investing heavily in sports infrastructure as part of its broader ambition to become a global football hub.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has scheduled the expanded edition of WAFCON to take place from July 25 to August 16, 2026, marking another significant milestone in the development of women's football across the continent.

Morocco's selection comes amid increased demand for high-quality facilities capable of accommodating larger tournaments.

The country already possesses a network of modern stadiums, training grounds, accommodation facilities and transport infrastructure, much of which has been upgraded in preparation for future international events.

Lekjaa's remarks also underline Morocco's confidence in its ability to host major competitions without incurring substantial financial or logistical difficulties.

According to the federation president, the country's existing infrastructure means organizing the tournament will not place an additional burden on authorities.

Morocco has emerged as one of CAF's most reliable hosts in recent years, having successfully organized the 2022 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, which attracted record attendance figures and generated significant interest in the women's game.

The nation has also hosted several youth championships, club competitions and international tournaments.

The 2026 WAFCON is expected to serve as another platform for showcasing the rapid growth of women's football in Africa.

With an expanded format set to feature more teams and matches, organizers hope the competition will further boost the visibility of the women's game and create additional opportunities for players across the continent.

For Morocco, hosting the tournament represents another step in its long-term football strategy as the country prepares for an increasingly prominent role on the global stage, including co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.