South Africa’s Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has clarified that no official decision has been made regarding the relocation of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) from Morocco, despite his deputy’s premature announcement that the country would host the tournament. The clarification came after Deputy Minister Peace Mabe publicly declared at an awards ceremony on Sunday that South Africa would step in as hosts following Morocco’s apparent withdrawal. Mabe later told SABC Sport: “When Morocco said ‘We are not able to host’, South Africa, we said ‘Yes, we are available’. We are going to take it.” However, Minister McKenzie emphasized that Morocco remains the officially designated host for the 2026 tournament, stating that Mabe’s remarks “do not constitute a formal confirmation or assumption of hosting responsibilities.” He noted that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has not yet initiated any alternative hosting process, though South Africa has expressed willingness to support CAF if alternative arrangements become necessary. The potential hosting change comes as Morocco has invested significantly in football infrastructure while preparing to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The North African nation has been a crucial supporter of women’s football in recent years, with few other countries expressing interest in hosting WAFCON due to its significantly smaller supporter base compared to the men’s Africa Cup of Nations. With just 43 days remaining until the expanded 16-team tournament kicks off on March 17, South Africa would face substantial logistical challenges despite having 13 CAF-approved stadiums available.