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Morocco remain firmly in place to host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations as they have done over the last two editions, footynaija.com reports.
Confusion over the venue for the hosting of the WAFCON has been cleared, with Nigeria’s Super Falcons now preparing to defend their title on North African soil.
Speculation gathered pace over the weekend after comments made by South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, during a televised programme. Her remarks were widely interpreted as confirmation that Morocco had stepped aside, potentially allowing South Africa to step in at short notice.
The suggestion triggered widespread debate across the continent, particularly given the proximity of the tournament, which is scheduled for March to early April 2026.
Questions were quickly raised about logistics, planning and CAF’s established procedures, especially as Morocco had already identified Rabat, Casablanca and Fez among its proposed host cities. With African football’s showpiece event less than two months away, the idea of a late switch appeared highly unlikely to many observers.
The uncertainty was later addressed by South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, who moved to correct the narrative.
In a formal clarification, he explained that South Africa had not been awarded hosting rights and that no such decision had been taken by CAF. Instead, he said his country had merely indicated a willingness to assist if ever required, a routine step in contingency planning for major tournaments.
He added that any change of host would require CAF approval, government guarantees, cabinet clearance and venue inspections, none of which have occurred. CAF itself has made no announcement suggesting a relocation, further boosting Morocco’s status as hosts.
For Nigeria, the position is now clear. The Super Falcons will defend their continental title in Morocco, where they lifted a record-extending 10th WAFCON crown last August at the delayed 2024 tournament.
Preparations for the 2026 edition continue, with Nigeria set to feature in an invitational mini-tournament in Abidjan next month alongside hosts Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana and Senegal.
