We’re not replacing Morocco as 2026 WAFCON hosts ― South Africa

South Africa has debunked reports that it has taken over the hosting rights for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), saying Morocco is still officially in charge of staging the tournament.

South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, made this known via a statement issued on Monday.

McKenzie noted that there had been no directive from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to move the competition away from Morocco.

McKenzie was responding to earlier remarks by Deputy Sports Minister, Peace Mabel, who said Morocco had withdrawn from hosting the tournament just weeks before the scheduled kick-off and that South Africa was prepared to step in as a replacement.

McKenzie, however, clarified that South Africa had only communicated its willingness to support CAF if a backup hosting plan became necessary, describing such preparations as a normal part of tournament planning.

The minister stressed that CAF has not initiated any process to relocate the championship and that Morocco remains the confirmed host nation.

WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons to face Zambia, Malawi, Egypt in Group C

“At this stage, no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament, and Morocco remains the official host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. CAF has not yet triggered any alternative hosting process,” he stated.

McKenzie further explained that South Africa could only host the competition if CAF formally confirms the change and if all domestic requirements, including cabinet approval and the readiness of stadiums and other facilities, are met.

The 2026 WAFCON is scheduled to run from March 17 to April 3, with Morocco expected to host the tournament for a third consecutive time.

Morocco have finished second in the last two editions of the competition, losing to South Africa in the 2022 final and to Nigeria in 2024.

The Star