2026 WAFCON: Teams to battle for record $2 million winners’ prize

The 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will carry unprecedented financial rewards, with the 16 participating nations set to compete for a record-winning prize of $2 million following a landmark increase announced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

CAF has doubled the champions’ prize from the previous $1 million awarded at the last edition, underlining the governing body’s continued commitment to accelerating the growth of women’s football across the continent.

The overall tournament prize fund has also been increased by 67 percent, rising from $3.475 million to $5.8 million, making the 2026 edition the most lucrative in the history of the competition.

The runners-up will receive $750,000, while the third-placed team will earn an increased cash reward. In addition, every nation competing in Morocco will be guaranteed $150,000 in participation money, ensuring greater financial support for all teams regardless of their performance during the tournament.

The increased prize money comes as Morocco prepares to host an expanded 16-team tournament from July 25 to August 16, with some of Africa’s biggest footballing nations aiming to lift the continental title.

Defending champions Nigeria, hosts Morocco, South Africa, Zambia, Ghana and several other contenders are expected to battle for supremacy in what promises to be one of the most competitive editions of WAFCON.

CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe has repeatedly emphasized that increasing investment in women’s football remains one of the federation’s strategic priorities.

The latest prize-money enhancement is expected to improve player welfare, strengthen national women’s football programs and encourage greater investment from member associations and commercial partners.

The decision represents another significant milestone in CAF’s efforts to elevate the profile of women’s football in Africa.

After increasing the winners’ prize to $1 million in the previous edition, the governing body has once again raised the financial stakes, reflecting the growing popularity and competitiveness of the women’s game across the continent.

WAFCON 2026 Prize Money Breakdown

Placement / Finish	Prize Money (USD)	Increase from Previous Edition
Champions (Winners)	$2,000,000	100% Increase
Runners-Up	$750,000	50% Increase
Third Place	$550,000	43% Increase
Base Participation Fee	$150,000 (per team)	20% Increase

With history, continental glory and a record $2 million reward on the line, the 2026 WAFCON is set to become the richest and one of the most eagerly anticipated editions of Africa’s premier women’s football tournament.