South Africa has prepared itself for the possibility of hosting the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) next month amid a potential withdrawal by Morocco, Afrosport reports.
The North African nation is scheduled to host the biggest African women’s football competition from the third time in a row from March 17 to April 3. Reports however suggest Morocco are incensed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following their player ban and $415,000 fine for the fall out at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat.
South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, during the Super League Awards ceremony in Johannesburg on Sunday, revealed that the country will step after Morocco’s sudden decision to pull out and handover already finalised.
“Tonight I would like to announce that South Africa will be hosting the 2026 WAFCON, which we all know is a qualifying tournament for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil,” Mabe said at the event.
However, a statement released by the Sports Minster, Gayton McKenzie, clarified that South Africa has only expressed willingness to host should the need arise for an alternative. He stressed that no formal decision has been taken by CAF and Morocco remains the official designated host.
“As the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, I wish to provide clarity following remarks made by the Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture at the Hollywoodbets Super League Awards regarding the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON),“ read the statement that was posted on X.
“South Africa has expressed its willingness to support the Confederation of African Football (CAF) if required, should alternative hosting arrangements for the 2026 WAFCON become necessary. These engagements form part of ongoing discussions initiated by CAF as it considers various contingencies in line with the confederation’s responsible stewardship of the continental game.
“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. CAF has not yet triggered any alternative hosting process.”
The statement continued: “The remarks made by the Deputy Minister reflect government’s longstanding engagement on supporting African football and South Africa’s confidence in its proven ability to host major international sporting events. “They do not constitute a formal confirmation or assumption of hosting responsibilities.
“The Department, with SAFA and stakeholders, will continue to engage with CAF in a structured and responsible manner. Any further announcements will be made only once all required processes have been concluded and formal decisions taken.”
Media Statement
Sunday, 1 February 2026Statement on South Africa’s Position Regarding the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) pic.twitter.com/UhEX6bxAfI
— Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (@SportArtsCultur) February 1, 2026
Nigeria are the reigning WAFCON champions after beating Morocco to their record-extending 10th title last year.
South Africa were the champions of the 2022 edition, beating the Moroccans to their first-ever title after four previous runners-up finishes (2000, 2008, 2012, 2018).
