South Africa’s Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture has dismissed reports suggesting the country is set to host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), reaffirming that Morocco remains the official host of the tournament.

The clarification follows widespread confusion triggered by comments from Deputy Minister Peace Mabe, who indicated that South Africa would assume hosting responsibilities—remarks that fueled speculation that Morocco had withdrawn from staging the competition.

In an official statement, the ministry explained that South Africa has only indicated its readiness to assist the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should the need arise, stressing that this does not amount to a takeover of hosting rights.

The ministry further emphasized that CAF has made no decision to relocate the tournament and has not initiated any process to identify an alternative host.

The 16th edition of WAFCON is currently scheduled to take place in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026. South Africa, which last hosted the competition in 2010, maintains that it is merely on standby, putting an end to days of uncertainty surrounding the future of the tournament.