South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Gayton McKenzie, has dismissed reports suggesting that the country has been confirmed as the new host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
According to a statement issued on Monday, the minister stated that “no formal decision” has been taken to replace Morocco.
McKenzie reaffirmed that Morocco remains the official host of the tournament, which is scheduled to kick off on March 17.
The minister was responding to comments credited to the Deputy Minister of Sport, Peace Mabel, who had claimed that South Africa had taken over hosting rights after Morocco allegedly withdrew from the competition with just five weeks to the start date.
Mabel had said Morocco pulled out of hosting the WAFCON and that South Africa was ready to step in.
However, McKenzie clarified that South Africa has merely expressed readiness to assist the Confederation of African Football if the need arises.
According to him, South Africa “has only indicated its willingness to support CAF if alternative hosting arrangements become necessary.”
He explained that such measures “are part of CAF’s routine contingency planning” ahead of major tournaments.
“At this stage, no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament, and Morocco remains the official designated host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. CAF has not activated any alternative hosting process,” the statement said.
McKenzie added that for South Africa to host the tournament, several requirements must be met, including CAF’s formal approval, clearance from the cabinet, and the availability and readiness of venues and supporting infrastructure.
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