The CAF (African Football Confederation) is once again in the spotlight following Morocco’s surprising announcement to withdraw from hosting the Women’s AFCON 2026, set to take place in just two months. This decision has plunged the governing body of African football into a tricky situation, reigniting debates about its governance and ability to manage major events.
French journalist Romain Molina, known for his investigations into African football and for revealing Morocco’s influence within the CAF, has not held back in his criticism of the organization. According to him, the CAF has become an “absolute disaster” since FIFA attempted to intervene in its internal management. Molina explains on platform X that “since FIFA wanted to regain control of the CAF, with the approval or submission of certain African leaders, often rewarded with positions or payments in exchange, it’s an absolute disaster for African football”.
The journalist emphasizes that no other confederation in the world is currently facing such a crisis of governance and economic management. He believes the situation at the CAF is unique and alarming, highlighting structural problems that seem to worsen over the years. The combination of external pressures and internal conflicts has, according to Molina, deeply weakened the organization and jeopardized major competitions like the Women’s AFCON.
In the midst of this crisis, Morocco has decided to withdraw from hosting the Women’s AFCON 2026, leaving the CAF in an urgent situation. For now, it’s South Africa that has stepped up to take over and host the tournament. This move aims to save the event and ensure that the competition can go ahead despite the disruptions.
This episode highlights the fragility of the CAF and the complexity of its relationship with FIFA, as well as the direct impact of these tensions on the development of women’s football in Africa. The controversy surrounding governance and the control of certain actors over the institution continues to provoke strong reactions among journalists, fans, and stakeholders in African football.
In summary, the CAF finds itself at a critical turning point, facing severe criticism from experts like Romain Molina and decisions that could redefine the future of African competitions. South Africa’s involvement could provide a temporary solution, but it does not erase the deep questions about the management and integrity of football on the continent.
