South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has clarified that no official move has been made to change the host nation of this year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following remarks by Deputy Minister Peace Mabe suggesting South Africa could step in for Morocco.
Mabe made the comments while speaking at the HollywoodBets Super League Awards, where she said South Africa was ready to host the continental tournament if Morocco became unable to do so.
“We have the infrastructure, the hospitality capacity and the experience of hosting major international events,” Mabe said. “South Africa has successfully staged the G20 summit and the FIFA World Cup, so we are more than capable of hosting WAFCON if the need arises.”
Her remarks sparked speculation online that CAF may be considering relocating the tournament.
However, hours later, Minister McKenzie moved to calm the growing rumours, stressing that Morocco remains the officially designated host and that no formal decision has been taken.
“South Africa has not been awarded the hosting rights for WAFCON,” McKenzie said in a statement. “Morocco is still the host nation. Our discussions with CAF are purely preliminary and form part of standard contingency planning.”
He explained that South Africa merely expressed its willingness to assist the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should unforeseen circumstances arise.
“At this stage, no formal process has been triggered to change the host country, and CAF has not announced any relocation or alteration to the tournament schedule,” McKenzie added.
CAF is yet to issue an official statement regarding any possible change in host nation.
The last edition of WAFCON was held in Morocco, where Nigeria defeated the hosts 3–2 in a dramatic final to lift the trophy.
