South Africa’s sports ministry has dismissed reports suggesting the nation will take over hosting duties for the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations from Morocco.
In a statement released Sunday, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie said his deputy’s earlier comments had been misunderstood and did not constitute an official announcement that South Africa would stage the competition.
He emphasized that Morocco retains its status as the designated host and that the Confederation of African Football has not initiated any procedures to change venues.
The clarification follows widespread reports across the continent claiming South Africa was preparing to host the women’s championship based on the deputy minister’s statements.
The ministry said those remarks were intended to demonstrate South Africa’s backing for African football and its capacity to organize major international competitions, not to confirm a hosting transfer.
South Africa has indicated it would be prepared to assist CAF if an alternative host becomes necessary, according to the ministry. Such discussions are part of CAF’s routine contingency planning for its tournaments.
“At this stage, no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament,” the statement said, noting that any potential South African hosting would require compliance with established governmental and football administrative protocols.
Those protocols encompass formal notification from CAF that a substitute host is needed, cabinet authorization, identification of host cities and stadium availability, evaluation of lodging and transportation infrastructure, and finalization of government assurances and operational contracts with the South African Football Association.
McKenzie also highlighted the ministry’s broader objective of securing major sporting competitions to advance sport development, tourism, and economic expansion while strengthening South Africa’s international standing.
The ministry indicated that official announcements would only follow completion of all necessary procedures and formal approvals, advising media outlets and the public to approach unconfirmed reports cautiously.
Official statement on 2026 WAFCON by South Africa Sports Ministry
