South Africa’s Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture has moved to dispel claims that the nation is set to host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), asserting that Morocco will continue to serve as the official venue for the tournament.

This clarification follows a weekend marked by significant speculation across the continent, triggered by remarks from the Deputy Minister of Sport, Peace Mabe, who suggested that South Africa was prepared to assume hosting duties.

These comments ignited a wave of headlines asserting that Morocco had stepped back from organising the event; however, the ministry has now intervened to clarify the situation.

In an official statement, the ministry explained that South Africa has not taken over from Morocco but has merely expressed its willingness to assist the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should an alternate venue ever be necessary.

The ministry emphasised that no formal decision has been made to relocate the tournament from North Africa and confirmed that CAF has not initiated any process to seek a replacement host at this time.

The 16th edition of WAFCON is scheduled to take place in Morocco from March 17 to 3 April 2026.

While South Africa, the champions from 2022, boasts a substantial legacy and the infrastructure to host, having last undertaken the tournament in 2010, the official stance remains that the path to triumph continues to lead to Morocco.