By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York
South Africa has clarified that it has not been confirmed as the host of the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), stressing that Morocco remains the tournament’s officially designated host and that no relocation decision has been taken by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
In a statement issued by the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, the government explained that recent remarks by the Deputy Minister were intended to reaffirm South Africa’s willingness to support CAF if alternative hosting arrangements become necessary, not to signal a formal takeover of hosting duties.
According to the Ministry, CAF is currently engaged in contingency planning as part of its normal governance processes, but has not activated any alternative hosting mechanism for the 2026 WAFCON. As such, Morocco continues to hold hosting rights for the tournament.
The statement emphasized that any potential hosting of WAFCON by South Africa would be subject to strict government and football governance procedures. These include formal notification from CAF that alternative hosting is required, approval through Cabinet processes, confirmation of host cities and stadium availability, assessments of accommodation and transport capacity, and the completion of all necessary government guarantees and operational agreements in collaboration with the South African Football Association and other stakeholders.
The Ministry noted that the Deputy Minister’s comments reflect South Africa’s long-standing commitment to supporting African football and confidence in its proven capacity to host major international sporting events. However, it reiterated that the remarks should not be interpreted as a confirmation or assumption of hosting responsibilities.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture said it will continue structured engagements with CAF alongside SAFA and other stakeholders, adding that any official announcement will only be made once all processes are finalized and formal decisions taken.
The Ministry also reaffirmed South Africa’s broader strategy of pursuing major sporting events as a means to promote sport development, tourism growth, economic opportunities and the country’s global image.
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