New Claim: Will South Africa Take Over Hosting of the 2026 WAFCON from Morocco?

02.02.2026 | Football DNA

A fresh narrative emerged overnight suggesting that South Africa could take over hosting duties for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) from Morocco. The claim was made by South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Sport, Peace Mabe, before the government appeared to swiftly walk it back.

Mabe stated that Morocco had indicated it would no longer host the tournament and that South Africa had “seized an opportunity that presented itself because we have the necessary infrastructure and support.” However, the basis for her remarks remains unclear.

Government Backtracks on Hosting Claim

Shortly after Mabe’s comments, Minister of Sport Gayton McKenzie released a statement distancing the government from the claim, suggesting no formal decision had been made.

“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.

He added that South Africa had merely expressed a willingness to assist CAF should the need arise:

“South Africa has expressed its willingness to support CAF if required, should alternative hosting arrangements for the 2026 WAFCON become necessary.”

The minister’s emphasis on “structured and responsible engagement” strongly suggests that Mabe may have spoken prematurely.

Can South Africa Realistically Step In?

The tournament is scheduled to run from 17 March to 3 April 2026, leaving little room for uncertainty. On paper, South Africa is well-equipped to host. World-class stadia, hotels, transport networks and communication systems — legacies of the 2010 FIFA World Cup — are already in place.

However, infrastructure alone does not host a continental tournament.

A 16-team WAFCON requires significant funding, strong government backing, and rapid decision-making. SAFA would need firm financial guarantees, and any commitment would likely have to pass through Cabinet — a process rarely known for speed. In the current economic climate, the cost of hosting could also invite public and political criticism.

While McKenzie may have the appetite for such an undertaking, it remains unclear whether the broader government does.

Why Would Morocco Pull Out?

Perhaps the biggest mystery is why Morocco would step aside at such a late stage.

The North African nation has successfully hosted the last two WAFCON tournaments and has positioned itself as Africa’s premier football host. This edition, however, carries extra weight — it also serves as a qualification pathway to the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

On home soil, Morocco would be strong favourites to reach the semi-finals, which would secure World Cup qualification. Relinquishing hosting rights would significantly reduce that advantage, making a withdrawal seem like a self-inflicted setback.

Speculation and Strange Timing

There has been speculation that the situation could be linked to recent controversy at the men’s AFCON, where Morocco reportedly hoped Senegal would be stripped of their title following the chaotic final. While this remains unsubstantiated, the timing raises eyebrows.

For a country that aggressively pursues hosting rights — and is set to co-host the 2030 FIFA Men’s World Cup — pulling out of WAFCON would be a dramatic and unexpected reversal.

What Happens Next?

For now, the situation remains unresolved. Something clearly prompted Mabe’s remarks, but whether they were based on internal discussions, informal CAF conversations, or a misunderstanding is still unknown.

What is certain is that time is not on CAF’s side. If any hosting changes are to be made, they will need to happen soon.

The coming days will be telling.