South African Sports Minister: 'No Official Decision Made to Relocate Tournament; Morocco Remains Women's Africa Cup Host'

South Africa sparked widespread controversy in continental sports circles following a clear discrepancy between statements made by the country's Deputy Minister of Sport and an official statement issued by the Ministry of Sport regarding the potential withdrawal of the Kingdom of Morocco from hosting the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

In a video statement that raised many questions, South Africa's Deputy Minister of Sport asserted that her country "seized the opportunity" as soon as there were indications that Morocco would not host the tournament, and that South Africa would instead host it.

In response, the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture promptly issued an official statement (dated February 1, 2026) to clarify the official position. The statement, released under the Minister's name, read:

"As Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, I wish to provide clarification following remarks made by the Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture at the Hollywoodbets Super League awards ceremony concerning the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) tournament. South Africa has expressed its readiness to support the Confederation of African Football (CAF) if necessary, should alternative hosting arrangements for WAFCON 2026 become essential. These engagements are part of ongoing discussions initiated by CAF as it considers various contingencies in line with the Confederation's responsible oversight of the continental game."

"At this stage, no official decision has been made to relocate the tournament, and Morocco remains the officially designated host for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. CAF has not yet activated any alternative hosting process."

"Any potential hosting of the tournament by South Africa is subject to established governmental and football governance processes, in partnership with the South African Football Association (SAFA) and other stakeholders, including:

Official confirmation from CAF that alternative hosting arrangements are required; approval through relevant ministerial processes; confirmation of host cities, availability of stadiums, accommodation, and transport capacity; and the conclusion of necessary government guarantees and operational agreements."

"The statements made by the Deputy Minister reflect the government's long-standing commitment to supporting African football and South Africa's proven confidence in its ability to host major international sporting events. They do not constitute official confirmation or an assumption of hosting responsibilities."

"The Ministry, along with the South African Football Association and stakeholders, will continue to engage with CAF in an orderly and responsible manner. No further announcements will be made until all required processes are completed and official decisions are taken."

"The Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture will continue to pursue a long-term strategy of hosting major sporting events to promote sport, tourism, economic growth, and the country's image on the global stage."