Confusion as South Africa clarifies position on potential hosting of 2026 WAFCON
By Joel Masibo, February 2, 2026South Africa has moved to clear the air following recent remarks suggesting the country could host the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), reaffirming that no formal decision has been made to relocate the tournament from Morocco.
Minister’s clarification
In a media statement issued on Sunday, February 1, 2026, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie explained that comments made by Deputy Minister Peace Mabe during the Hollywoodbets Super League Awards on Sunday were misinterpreted as a confirmation of South Africa’s readiness to take over hosting duties.
According to the Minister, South Africa has only expressed its willingness to support the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should the need arise for alternative hosting arrangements. These discussions, he noted, are part of CAF’s broader contingency planning and responsible management of continental competitions.
“At this stage, no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament, and Morocco remains the officially designated host,” the statement read, adding that CAF has not activated any alternative hosting process.
The Ministry emphasised that any possibility of South Africa hosting the 2026 WAFCON would depend on several key conditions. These include an official request from CAF, approval through Cabinet processes, confirmation of suitable host cities and stadiums, as well as assurances on accommodation, transport capacity, and the signing of required government guarantees and operational agreements.
McKenzie stressed that the Deputy Minister’s remarks should be viewed within the context of South Africa’s long-standing commitment to supporting African football and its track record in successfully staging major international sporting events. However, he was clear that the comments did not amount to a declaration or assumption of hosting rights.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, working alongside the South African Football Association (SAFA) and other stakeholders, will continue engaging CAF in a structured and responsible manner. Any official announcement, the Ministry said, will only be made after all due processes are completed and formal decisions reached.
The remarks made by the Deputy Minister reflect the government’s longstanding engagement in 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.
Continued engagement
”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.” The statement added.
The statement also reaffirmed the government’s broader ambition to host major sporting events as part of a long-term strategy aimed at boosting sports development, tourism, economic growth, and enhancing South Africa’s global image.
For now, Morocco remains the confirmed host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with South Africa positioning itself as a supportive partner should CAF require alternatives in the future.