There's some serious confusion about who's hosting the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. And it's all playing out in public between South African government officials.
Deputy Minister Peace Mabe announced on Sunday night that South Africa would replace Morocco as the tournament hosts. She made the comments at an awards ceremony for South Africa's top women's league. She sounded pretty confident about it too.
"We took an opportunity that presented itself because we feel we have the necessary infrastructure," Mabe told SABC Sport. She pointed to South Africa's successful hosting of the G20 summit in November and the 2010 men's World Cup as proof they're ready.
With just 60 days until the tournament's planned start date of March 17, Mabe said they weren't worried. "We just have to put systems in place. From tomorrow, we will begin."
Not So Fast, Says the Boss
But here's where it gets awkward. Hours later, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie basically said "hold on a minute." He released a statement saying no official decision has been made at all.
McKenzie made it clear that Morocco remains the official host. South Africa has only expressed willingness to help if CAF (African football's governing body) needs an alternative. That's very different from what his deputy announced.
"These engagements form part of ongoing discussions," McKenzie explained. "At this stage, no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament."
He listed several things that would need to happen first. CAF would need to formally request a change. South Africa's Cabinet would need to approve. They'd need to confirm stadiums, hotels, and transport. It's a whole process.
What This Means for the Tournament
For anyone planning around WAFCON 2026, this is frustrating news. The tournament is supposed to start in about 60 days, but we don't even know for sure where it's happening.
Morocco hasn't officially pulled out yet, though that seems to be the expectation. CAF hasn't said anything either way, which isn't helping the situation.
This year's tournament is expanding from 12 to 16 teams. South Africa are in Group B with Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and Tanzania. The top two from each group advance to the quarters.
For betting markets, this uncertainty is a nightmare. If the location changes, it could affect South Africa's odds significantly. Playing at home would be a major advantage for Banyana Banyana, especially after Nigeria beat Morocco in last year's final on home soil.
Nigeria won that tournament in July, taking the crown from South Africa who had won it in 2022. Also in Morocco, interestingly enough.
Bottom line? Don't bet on where this tournament is happening just yet. Wait for CAF to actually make an announcement before believing anything.
