The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr. Gayton McKenzie, has provided clarity on South Africa’s position regarding the upcoming 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
This follows comments made by the Deputy Minister at Hollywood bets super league awards about the tournament.
Minister McKenzie confirmed that South Africa has told the Confederation of African Football (CAF) it is ready to help if needed. This would only be if CAF has to find a new host nation for the 2026 women’s football tournament. These talks are part of normal discussions CAF is having to plan for different possible situations.
It is important to note that no official decision has been made to move the tournament. Morocco is still the confirmed host for the 2026 WAFCON, and CAF has not started a process to find a replacement.
Should South Africa be asked to host, any decision would follow strict government and football rules. This would be done together with the South African Football Association (SAFA) and other partners. Key steps would include:
Formal notice from CAF that a new host is required.
Approval from the South African Cabinet.
Confirming which cities could host, along with stadiums, hotels, and transport.
Signing the necessary government guarantees and event agreements.
The Deputy Minister’s earlier remarks highlighted the government’s constant support for African football and South Africa’s strong record of hosting major events. However, they were not a formal announcement that South Africa will host.
The Department and SAFA will keep talking with CAF in a careful and organized way.
The public will only receive further updates once all official processes are finished and final decisions are made.
The Ministry remains committed to a long-term plan of hosting major sporting events. This strategy aims to develop sport, increase tourism, grow the economy, and improve the country’s global standing.
South Africa beat host nation Morocco 2-1 to win the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in 2022.
South Africa had lost their four previous finals: in 2000, 2008, 2012 and 2018.