South Africa clarifies position on 2026 WAFCON hosting

South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has clarified that no official decision has been taken to change the host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following comments by Deputy Minister Peace Mabe suggesting South Africa could replace Morocco.

Mabe, speaking on Sunday at the HollywoodBets Super League Awards, said South Africa was prepared to host the tournament should Morocco be unable to do so, citing the country’s infrastructure, hospitality capacity and experience in staging major international events.

“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.

“When Morocco said they were not able to host, South Africa said, ‘Yes, we are available.’ We have just hosted a successful G20 summit with heads of state from different countries. It shows that in terms of hospitality and infrastructure, we are ready.”

She also referenced South Africa’s successful hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, noting that the country possesses world-class stadiums and organisational capacity.

However, hours after the remarks, McKenzie issued a statement stressing that the comments did not amount to an official change of host.

According to the minister, South Africa has merely expressed its willingness to support the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should alternative hosting arrangements become necessary.

“As the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, I wish to provide clarity following remarks made by the Deputy Minister regarding the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations,” McKenzie said.

“South Africa has indicated its willingness to assist CAF if required, should alternative hosting arrangements become necessary. These discussions form part of CAF’s contingency planning and do not constitute a relocation of the tournament.”

He added that Morocco remains the officially designated host, and that CAF has not activated any process to move the tournament.

“At this stage, no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament, and CAF has not triggered any alternative hosting process,” the minister stated.

The Confederation of African Football has yet to issue an official statement confirming any change to the host nation or adjustments to the tournament schedule.

The most recent edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations was held in Morocco, where Nigeria defeated the hosts 3–2 in the final to lift the trophy.