South Africa Clarifies Stance on Hosting 2026 WAFCON
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has issued a clarifying statement regarding South Africa’s potential role in hosting the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The statement follows recent comments made by the Deputy Minister at the Hollywoodbets Super League Awards, which sparked speculation that a move to South African soil was already in motion.
Morocco Remains Official Host
Despite the buzz, Minister McKenzie emphasized that no official change has been made to the tournament’s location.
“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,” the Minister stated.
He further clarified that while South Africa has expressed a “willingness to support” the Confederation of African Football (CAF) if necessary, CAF has not yet triggered any formal process to find an alternative host.
A Rigorous Approval Process
For South Africa to step in as an alternative host for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the process must begin with a formal request from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This official confirmation is the necessary catalyst to trigger a domestic review, which requires full “green-lighting” through established South African government and Cabinet channels. These administrative hurdles ensure that any transition of the tournament from Morocco to South African soil is handled with the appropriate legal and political oversight.
Once the formal and political approvals are in place, the focus would shift to technical and financial readiness. The Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture requires a comprehensive audit to confirm the availability of world-class host cities, stadiums, and sufficient transport and accommodation capacity. Simultaneously, all essential government guarantees and operational agreements must be finalized to secure the financial and logistical integrity of the event. This structured approach ensures that South Africa only assumes hosting duties if it can maintain its reputation for delivering major international sporting spectacles.
Strategic Vision for Sport
While the Deputy Minister’s remarks were characterized as a reflection of South Africa’s confidence and longstanding support for African football, McKenzie was firm that they do not constitute a formal assumption of responsibilities.
The Ministry remains committed to a long-term strategy of hosting major international events to drive economic growth, tourism, and national prestige. However, for WAFCON 2026, the department will continue to engage with CAF in a “structured and responsible manner” before making any further announcements.
