South Africa has clarified its position regarding the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after confusion sparked by Deputy Minister Peace Mabe’s comments suggesting the country could step in as host.
Speaking at the HollywoodBets Super League Awards on Sunday, February 2, Mabe said South Africa was prepared to host the tournament if Morocco proved unable to do so. She highlighted the nation’s infrastructure, hospitality capabilities, and experience in organizing major events, including the 2010 men’s FIFA World Cup and the recent G20 summit in November 2025.
However, South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, quickly clarified that no official decision has been made to change the host nation. McKenzie emphasized that Morocco remains the designated host and that South Africa’s offer is part of preliminary contingency planning in coordination with the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
“The country has expressed its readiness to support CAF if alternative hosting becomes necessary,” McKenzie stated. “These discussions are precautionary and do not constitute a decision to relocate the tournament. No formal process has been triggered, and CAF has not announced any adjustments to the tournament schedule.”
CAF is yet to issue an official statement regarding a host change. The previous WAFCON edition was held in Morocco, where Nigeria triumphed 3–2 over the hosts in the final.
