WAFCON 2026: Confusion in South Africa over hosting rights

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WAFCON 2026: Confusion in South Africa over hosting rights
Deputy Sports Minister Peace Mabe and her boss Gayton McKenzie.

The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations looks to be in jeopardy after Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie gave a conflicting statement to that made by his deputy Peace Mabe over its hosting.

Mabe had on Sunday night claimed that Morocco have pulled out of hosting this year’s tournament set to take place from March 17 to April 3 and South Africa has seized the chance.

“We took an opportunity that presented itself because we feel we have the necessary infrastructure and the support of hosting WAFCON,” Mabe told SABC. “When Morocco said; ‘we will not be able to host WAFCON,’ South Africa said; ‘yes, we are available, we have got to take it.’”

McKenzie ‘clarifies’ Mabe’s statement

However, McKenzie denied that South Africa have taken over from Morocco, saying hosting a tournament is a collective decision that can only be made once all stakeholders involved agree.

“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. CAF has not yet triggered any alternative hosting process,” McKenzie said in a statement.

“South Africa has expressed its willingness to support CAF if required, should alternative hosting arrangements for the 2026 WAFCON become necessary. These engagements form part of ongoing discussions initiated by CAF as it considers various contingencies in line with the confederation’s responsible stewardship of the continental game.”

Who will host WAFCON 2026?

“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 further read.

It is a situation that leaves many questions than answers as it appears there is more bubbling under the surface and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) might need to clarify given how close the 16-team tournament is close to kicking off.

South Arica have the infrastructure in place to host the tournament but given the cost involved, it is uncertain if the government would be keen to commit more funds towards it.

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.
His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.

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