Shock delay: CAF sounds out Algeria after postponing Women’s AFCON 2026

The Confederation of African Football has postponed the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with Algeria emerging as a potential alternative host amid uncertainty over the tournament’s future.

The decision to delay the competition was taken on Friday. However, no official communication has followed to confirm a revised date or clarify which country will stage the event.

Observers suggest the absence of detail reflects unresolved discussions within CAF, particularly regarding the host nation.

The option of moving the tournament is understood to be under serious consideration.

Informal talks are reportedly ongoing as the governing body searches for a replacement for Morocco, which no longer wishes to organise the event following the difficulties surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

According to sources, Algeria was contacted shortly after the 2025 tournament to assess its willingness to step in.

The response from the Algerian Football Federation was negative.

Officials indicated that their priority remains the restructuring and development of domestic football, ruling out the prospect of hosting another major continental event in the near term.

Algeria recently staged both the 2022 African Nations Championship and the 2023 Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations.

The federation is said to be reluctant to embark on another large-scale commitment so soon.

The backdrop to the current situation also includes lingering frustration over the awarding of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations to Morocco, despite Algeria having submitted what was widely regarded as a strong bid.

That episode continues to shape perceptions and influences the present context.

Elsewhere, other options are being weighed.

Egypt is among the countries under consideration, as CAF is keen to retain the tournament in North Africa.

Should that prove unfeasible, South Africa has been identified as a credible alternative, having consistently expressed interest in hosting a major continental competition.

For now, the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations remains without a confirmed venue or timetable, leaving participating nations awaiting clarity from CAF.