CAF Boosts WAFCON 2024 Prize Money With $1 Million For Winners.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a substantial increase in prize money for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to take place in Morocco from 5 to 26 July. The winners of the tournament will now claim a record-breaking $1 million (£780,000), doubling the previous edition’s prize, while the total prize pool has surged by 45% to $3.475 million (£2.7 million).
This significant financial uplift reflects CAF’s commitment to advancing women’s football across the continent. The runners-up will receive $500,000 (£390,000), with the third and fourth-placed teams earning $350,000 (£273,000) and $300,000 (£234,000) respectively. Quarter-finalists will each pocket $200,000 (£156,000), while teams finishing third and fourth in their groups will be awarded $150,000 (£117,000) and $125,000 (£97,500) respectively.
CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe hailed the move as a pivotal step in supporting the growth of women’s football. “The 100% increase in the winner’s prize money and the 45% rise in the total prize pool will contribute to better salaries for players, coaches, and staff,” he said. He also noted the rising quality of African women’s football, describing it as “world-class” and anticipating a surge in fans, viewers, and sponsors for the tournament.
The 15th edition of WAFCON will see 12 nations compete, with hosts Morocco facing Zambia in the opening match in Rabat. Nigeria’s Super Falcons, nine-time champions, will begin their quest for a 10th title against Tunisia in Casablanca, while defending champions South Africa’s Banyana Banyana take on Ghana’s Black Queens. The tournament promises fierce competition and a chance to showcase Africa’s growing prowess in women’s football.
This financial boost is expected to enhance investment in the sport, encouraging greater participation and professionalism. With a dazzling new trophy unveiled and the ‘Born Winners’ slogan setting the tone, WAFCON 2024 is poised to be a landmark event for African women’s football.