The South African Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture has firmly dismissed reports claiming the country is set to host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The clarification comes in the wake of comments attributed to the Deputy Minister, which fueled speculation that South Africa had taken over hosting duties following unverified claims that Morocco had withdrawn from staging the tournament.
In an official statement, the Ministry stressed that South Africa has merely expressed its willingness to support the Confederation of African Football (CAF) if the need arises, in the event that alternative hosting arrangements become necessary for the 2026 competition.
The Ministry further emphasized that no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament, and that Morocco remains the officially designated host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. CAF, it added, has also not activated any process to identify an alternative host at this time.
South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe has confirmed that South Africa is set to take over hosting duties of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠!!
Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe confirms that South Africa will be taking over from Morocco to host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with only 60 days from kickoff.
📹 #SABCSport’s @flexmpumi #SABCSportFootball pic.twitter.com/IFR4vqkZnR
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) February 1, 2026
The 16th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to be held in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
South Africa last hosted the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in 2010, having previously staged the continental tournament in 2000 and 2004.
