Morocco has not withdrawn from hosting the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), despite recent reports suggesting otherwise, with the North African nation requesting CAF consider a postponement instead.
The clarification comes after South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Sports, Peace Mabe, announced her country was ready to replace Morocco as host.
The remarks prompted CAF to receive statements from both nations, including an official release from South African Minister Gayton McKenzie.
In his statement, McKenzie stressed that South Africa had not formally applied to host the tournament but had expressed willingness to assist CAF should an alternative venue be required. The move was described as a ‘routine precautionary measure’ by the Confederation to ensure major competitions run smoothly.
Morocco, meanwhile, remains the official host, and CAF has yet to activate any contingency plans or make any decision to relocate the tournament. According to sources close to Winwin, the federation’s request to delay the competition is linked to domestic scheduling conflicts.
Morocco’s league has already been halted for over a month during the recent Men’s Africa Cup of Nations, and officials are concerned that another interruption could disrupt the flow of local competitions and affect player readiness.
CAF reportedly has two paths to consider: approving Morocco’s request to postpone the tournament while maintaining the country as host or insisting the event proceed on the original schedule, which could necessitate handing hosting rights to another nation. Should the latter occur, South Africa is widely seen as the most likely replacement, given its preparedness and infrastructure.
For now, the decision remains entirely in CAF’s hands. The continental governing body has not issued any official confirmation regarding a change of dates or venue, opting instead to continue discussions with all stakeholders before finalizing plans.
Sources say Morocco will continue preparations in parallel while awaiting CAF’s ruling, ensuring the federation can comply quickly once a decision is made.
Until an official announcement is issued, Morocco remains the designated host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. South Africa’s involvement is currently limited to contingency planning and precautionary measures, with no formal transfer of hosting responsibilities confirmed.
