Sports Minister’s office clears confusion over South Africa hosting 2026 WAFCON

The office of the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture has moved to clarify South Africa’s position regarding the hosting of the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following widespread confusion sparked by recent public remarks.

In an official statement, the Minister’s office stressed that South Africa has not been formally awarded the right to host the 2026 tournament and that any suggestion to the contrary was premature. 

The clarification follows comments made by Deputy Minister Peace Mabe at the Hollywoodbets Super League awards on Sunday, which were interpreted by many as confirmation that South Africa would stage the continental showpiece.

According to the statement, Morocco remains the officially designated host of the 2026 WAFCON unless the Confederation of African Football (CAF) communicates otherwise through formal channels. 

The Minister’s office emphasised that no such confirmation has been received to date.

The statement explained that Deputy Minister Mabe’s remarks were made within the context of South Africa’s readiness and capacity to support CAF should the need arise, rather than as an announcement of a confirmed hosting role. 

Government reiterated that any potential hosting responsibility would only follow a structured process initiated by CAF and concluded through Cabinet approval.

“The comments should be understood as an expression of willingness and preparedness, not an official declaration,” the statement read. 

“South Africa has a proven track record of hosting major continental and global sporting events, but any decision of this nature would require formal engagement, planning and authorisation.”

The Minister’s office further outlined that hosting a tournament of WAFCON’s scale involves extensive logistical, financial and operational commitments. 

These include the identification of host cities and stadiums, transport and accommodation planning, security arrangements, and the provision of government guarantees in partnership with the South African Football Association (SAFA).

Government also highlighted the importance of clear communication around major sporting events, particularly those with continental significance, noting that official announcements can only be made once all stakeholders — including CAF and national authorities — have completed the necessary processes.

While South Africa has in the past successfully hosted tournaments such as the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Minister’s office cautioned against assumptions that such events can be reassigned informally or without due process.

The statement concluded by reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to the growth of women’s football on the continent and its continued cooperation with CAF, while stressing that any developments regarding the 2026 WAFCON will be communicated formally and transparently when confirmed.