South Africa’s Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has issued an official clarification denying that the country has formally agreed to host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in place of Morocco, following public remarks by Deputy Minister Bertha Peace Mabe that sparked widespread speculation.
Speaking to SABC Sport on Sunday, Mabe said South Africa was prepared to stage the continental tournament after Morocco had allegedly indicated it would be unable to host. “Morocco said we are not able to host. South Africa said yes, we are available,” she stated, adding that the country possesses the infrastructure and operational readiness required to organize the competition.
Her comments quickly fueled reports suggesting that CAF had already identified South Africa as a replacement venue. However, the ministry moved to temper those interpretations, stressing in an official statement that no formal commitment had been made and that discussions, if any, remain preliminary and precautionary.
The department emphasized that Morocco continues to be the official host nation for the 2026 Women’s AFCON, noting that the Confederation of African Football has not launched any procedures to appoint an alternative country. It also pointed out that Morocco has not released an official statement confirming any withdrawal from hosting duties.
According to the ministry, any future scenario in which South Africa could host the tournament would depend on a series of formal steps, including receiving an official request from CAF, obtaining government approval, selecting host cities, verifying stadium and infrastructure readiness, and completing the necessary guarantees and organizational agreements.
Officials further clarified that the deputy minister’s interview should not be interpreted as an official acceptance of hosting responsibilities, but rather as an expression of South Africa’s willingness to support African football and its confidence in its ability to deliver major sporting events if formally mandated.
The statement concluded by affirming that the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture will continue to coordinate closely with CAF and the South African Football Association (SAFA) in a responsible and structured manner regarding continental football matters.
