World football governing body FIFA has officially confirmed that the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 will take place from 17 October to 7 November 2026 and will be staged on African soil.
The announcement, made during the FIFA Council meeting on Thursday, 19 March, reinforces Morocco’s unprecedented role as host nation, with the North African country staging the competition for five consecutive editions from 2025 to 2029.
This is an historic event as it is a first in the tournament’s history.
The 2026 edition will feature an expanded 24-team format, up from the previous 16, as part of FIFA’s broader strategy to grow the women’s game and enhance global representation.
“Morocco Is a Fabulous Land of Football” – FIFA President
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised Morocco’s growing stature as a global football hub, expressing confidence in the country’s ability to deliver a world-class tournament.
“Morocco continues to achieve success, demonstrating each time its ability to ensure the success of major sporting events,” Infantino had earlier said.
He further emphasized FIFA’s long-term vision for the region:
“Morocco, a fabulous country and land of football, is the first African country to host this World Cup.”
Infantino added that the tournament would serve as a critical platform for emerging talent:
“This high-stakes tournament will serve as a crucial platform to uncover emerging talent, giving young female players worldwide a golden opportunity to showcase their skills on the global stage.”
Morocco’s Rising Global Football Influence
Morocco’s selection is part of a deliberate long-term strategy by FIFA to build stability and continuity in women’s youth competitions.
By hosting five consecutive editions, the country will leverage its infrastructure, organizational expertise, and growing football culture.
President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, Fouzi Lekjaa, welcomed the world to Morocco:
“Land of hospitality, civilization and prosperity.”
Highlighting the significance of the venue, he added:
“The Mohammed VI Football Complex… represents an emblematic sports facility that embodies the exceptional development Morocco is experiencing under the reign of King Mohammed VI.”
Lekjaa also stressed the importance of women’s football development:
“Promoting equality and parity remains fundamental in the country’s development process.”
“Exceptional Infrastructure” – FIFA Backs Morocco
FIFA Tournament Sub-division Director Jaime Yarza underlined why Morocco was chosen for the long-term hosting rights:
“We are confident that Morocco will do everything to ensure the success of this event.”
He added:
“The infrastructure is modern and professional. Morocco now has nothing to envy from major European countries.”
Tournament Format and Qualification Pathway
The 2026 tournament will bring together 24 teams from six confederations, distributed as follows:
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Africa (CAF): 5 teams (including host Morocco)
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Europe (UEFA): 5 teams
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Asia (AFC): 4 teams
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North & Central America (CONCACAF): 4 teams
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South America (CONMEBOL): 4 teams
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Oceania (OFC): 2 teams
Qualification will take place across 2026:
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Africa qualifiers: 10–19 April (early rounds), 3–12 July (final phase)
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CONCACAF Championship: 16–22 March
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South America Championship: 22 April–16 May
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AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup: 1–17 May
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UEFA Women’s U-17 Championship: 4–17 May
North Korea’s Dominance Continues
The most recent edition in Morocco saw North Korea underline their dominance at youth level, defeating Netherlands 3–0 in the 2025 final in Rabat to secure a record fourth title.
Since the tournament’s inception in 2008, Asian nations, particularly North Korea, have dominated, with only Spain and France breaking that stronghold.
Past winners of the tournament are:
- Korea DPR (Dominican Republic 2024)
- Spain (India 2022)
- Spain (Uruguay 2018)
- Korea DPR (Jordan 2016)
- Japan (Costa Rica 2014)
- France (Azerbaijan 2012)
- Korea Republic (Trinidad and Tobago 2010)
- Korea DPR (New Zealand 2008)
Flamingos Eye Redemption After 2025 Exit
Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, will be aiming for a strong comeback after a disappointing outing in 2025.
The West Africans, who won bronze at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, were eliminated 4–0 by Italy in the Round of 16 in Morocco.
With Africa guaranteed five slots including the host, Nigeria will once again battle through CAF qualifiers to secure a place at the 2026 tournament.
Expanded Tournament, Bigger Opportunities
The expansion to 24 teams, according to FIFA is a commitment to strengthening women’s football globally, especially at youth level.
The U-17 Women’s World Cup continues to serve as a vital development platform, offering young players a pathway to senior international football.
Adding to the excitement, FIFA has also unveiled a new tournament logo, symbolically integrating the trophy into the “U” of “U17,” representing unity, ambition, and the future of the women’s game.
With dates now confirmed, attention turns to the continental qualifiers, where nations across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas will compete fiercely for a place in Morocco.
