South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has clarified that no official decision has been taken to change the host nation of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), despite recent comments suggesting South Africa could replace Morocco.
The clarification followed remarks made on Sunday by Deputy Minister Peace Mabe at the HollywoodBets Super League Awards, where she stated that South Africa was prepared to host the tournament if Morocco became unable to do so. Mabe highlighted South Africa’s infrastructure, hospitality capacity, and experience in hosting major international sporting events as key strengths.
“We took an opportunity that presented itself because we feel we have the necessary infrastructure and support [to host] the WAFCON,” Mabe told SABC Sport, adding that South Africa’s successful hosting of global events, including the G20 summit and the 2010 FIFA World Cup, demonstrated its readiness.
Her comments sparked widespread speculation that CAF had decided to relocate the tournament. However, in a statement released hours later, Minister McKenzie stressed that discussions remain preliminary and that Morocco is still the officially designated host of the 2026 competition.
McKenzie explained that South Africa has only expressed its willingness to assist the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should alternative hosting arrangements become necessary. According to him, such discussions are part of CAF’s routine contingency planning and do not amount to a formal change of host nation.
“At this stage, no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament, and Morocco remains the officially designated host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations,” McKenzie said, adding that CAF has not activated any alternative hosting process.
CAF is yet to issue an official statement confirming any change in host country or adjustments to the tournament schedule.
The most recent edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations was held in Morocco in 2024, where Nigeria emerged champions after defeating the host nation 3–2 in the final.
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