Gayton McKenzie, South Africa’s minister of sport, has dismissed reports claiming the country has been confirmed as the new host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

In an official statement released on Monday, McKenzie clarified that South Africa has not been awarded the hosting rights for the tournament.

He stressed that Morocco remains the officially designated host and that no formal decision has been taken to relocate the competition.

Support Role, Not Host Status

According to the statement, South Africa has only expressed its willingness to support the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should alternative hosting arrangements become necessary.

Comments Spark Clarification

The clarification follows comments made on Sunday by Deputy Minister of Sport, Peace Mabe, during the Hollywoodbets Super League Awards ceremony in Johannesburg, where she suggested that South Africa was ready to “take over” hosting duties amid reports that Morocco had withdrawn.

Mabe cited South Africa’s infrastructure as evidence of its readiness to host the tournament.

“We have the necessary infrastructure; our stadiums are well-maintained. We have recently held a very successful G20 Conference here in South Africa, so yes, we are ready,” she said.

Morocco Still Official Host

However, McKenzie emphasised that such remarks should not be interpreted as confirmation of hosting rights.

“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,” the minister stated.

Tournament Dates

The 2026 WAFCON is scheduled to take place from March 17 to April 3, 2026.