Morocco to Remain Host of 2026 Women's AFCON, Confirms South Africa's Sports Minister

South Africa's Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, has clarified that Morocco will continue as the official host of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, refuting claims that South Africa would replace Morocco as the host. The statement came in response to Deputy Sports Minister Peace Mabel's assertion that South Africa was prepared to step in if Morocco withdrew as the host.

McKenzie emphasized that South Africa had only expressed readiness to assist the Confederation of African Football (CAF) if needed. While reports indicated that Morocco might withdraw as the host, McKenzie stated that no formal decision had been made to relocate the tournament.

South Africa has met several requirements to host the tournament, pending CAF's formal approval and other clearances. Morocco is poised to host the Women's AFCON for the third consecutive time, with the tournament scheduled to take place from March 17 to April 3.

In the previous editions, Morocco finished as runners-up, losing to South Africa in the 2022 final and Nigeria's Super Falcons in 2024.