South Africa clarifies it has not taken over hosting 2026 Women’s AFCON; Morocco remains official host

South Africa clarifies it has not taken over hosting 2026 Women’s AFCON; Morocco remains official host
Monday 2 February 2026 - 00:05

South Africa’s Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture issued a statement clarifying that Morocco remains the official host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, following confusion over remarks by Deputy Minister Bertha Peace Mabe about the tournament.

The statement, signed by South African Sport Minister Gayton McKenzie, said Mabe’s comments “were misinterpreted.” South Africa had only expressed its readiness to support the Confederation of African Football (CAF) if alternative arrangements became necessary as part of routine contingency planning, the ministry said.

“No decision has been made to move the tournament, and CAF has not activated any alternative procedures,” the statement said, adding that Morocco remains confirmed as the host nation.

The ministry emphasized that any future possibility of South Africa hosting the tournament would require official CAF confirmation, government approval, verification of stadiums and infrastructure readiness, and completion of all required government guarantees, in partnership with the South African Football Association and other stakeholders.

McKenzie concluded that Mabe’s remarks “do not in any way confirm South Africa as host,” but reflect the country’s “commitment to supporting African football and readiness to host major events.” Any official updates will be announced only after all legal and organizational procedures are completed.

add your comment

Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.

International
'Like we had a war': France counts cost of violent protests
Sunday 18 October 2026 - 17:03

'Like we had a war': France counts cost of violent protests

Politics
Madiha Khayr’s brief cabinet tenure ends amid controversy over 2004 document
Sunday 18 October 2026 - 15:18

Madiha Khayr’s brief cabinet tenure ends amid controversy over 2004 document

News
King Mohammed VI approves dismissal of newly appointed vocational training minister
Sunday 18 October 2026 - 14:19

King Mohammed VI approves dismissal of newly appointed vocational training minister

News
US Army to test up to 15 counter-drone systems in Morocco during African Lion 2027
Sunday 18 October 2026 - 13:26

US Army to test up to 15 counter-drone systems in Morocco during African Lion 2027