It's official: the Ivorian Basketball Federation (FIBB) has announced that Abidjan will host the 2026 U18 Afrobasket . From August 3 to 16, 2026 , the Dome at the Palais des Sports in Treichville will resonate with the best junior teams on the continent, both boys and girls.

Although these dates are pending final validation from FIBA Africa, the Ivorian economic capital is already preparing to host a total of 24 teams (12 men's and 12 women's teams) for two weeks of intense competition.

The schedule of qualifying tournaments

Before the final tournament kicks off in Abidjan, the various nations will have to secure their place through zonal qualifiers. Here is the scheduled calendar:

1. Zone 4: From May 28 to June 4
2. Zone 5: From June 14 to 21
3. Zone 3: From July 4th to 17th
4. Zone 1: From July 8 to 13
5. Note: Dates for Zones 6 and 7 are yet to be determined.

The forces at play and the global stakes

Several leading nations have already secured their place thanks to their past performances. Mali , the overwhelming favorite for the competition after its historic double (men's and women's titles) in 2024, will be present alongside Senegal , Cameroon , and Morocco (4th in 2024).

The major issue: Beyond the continental title, the two finalist teams of this Afrobasket U18 will directly secure their qualification for the FIBA U19 World Cup in 2027 .

The Elephants face the challenge of a takeover

For Ivory Coast, playing at home represents a golden opportunity to erase the disappointment of the 2024 edition in South Africa. The Elephants had a frustrating run there, eliminated in the group stage after three close defeats:

1. Against Cameroon (62-67)
2. Against Senegal (63-69)
3. Against Mali (69-73)

Supported by their fans, the young Ivorians fully intend to reverse the trend next August and transform this event into a true celebration of national basketball.