African women’s football entered a period of uncertainty on Sunday after South Africa replaced Morocco as host of WAFCON 2026. The decision came less than seven weeks before the tournament’s scheduled kickoff.
The late change has raised concerns among teams, organisers, and commercial partners across the continent.
South Africa Confirms Hosting Decision
South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, confirmed the development during a national television broadcast. She said the country stepped in after Morocco informed officials it could no longer host the competition.
Mabe stated that South Africa possesses the infrastructure and institutional support required to stage the tournament successfully. She added that officials acted quickly to prevent further disruption to the women’s football calendar.
Possible Shift in Tournament Dates
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations was originally scheduled to run from 17 March to 3 April. Officials have indicated the tournament may be postponed by up to two weeks to allow adequate preparation.
As of Monday, CAF has not announced revised dates, leaving participating nations awaiting further clarification.
CAF and Morocco Yet to Issue Explanation
Neither Moroccan authorities nor the Confederation of African Football has issued an official explanation for the withdrawal. The silence has surprised observers, especially after Morocco named venues in Rabat, Casablanca and Fez.
Preparations at the designated host cities were reportedly at advanced stages before the announcement.
Speculation Surrounds Morocco’s Withdrawal
Speculation has emerged linking the decision to unresolved tensions from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. However, these claims remain unverified and have not been supported by official statements.
CAF officials have urged restraint as the federation reviews the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal.
CAF’s History with Late Host Withdrawals
CAF has previously sanctioned countries that withdrew close to tournament commencement. In 2015, Morocco faced suspension after pulling out of hosting AFCON over Ebola concerns.
That decision was later overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, setting a complex precedent.
Observers believe CAF may adopt a cautious approach this time, citing leadership dynamics within the federation.
Morocco Still Expected to Participate
Despite stepping down as hosts, Morocco’s women’s national team remains listed for the tournament. They are provisionally placed in Group A alongside Algeria, Senegal and Kenya.
Final group confirmations are expected once CAF issues an official statement.
South Africa Faces Tight Timelines
South Africa now faces the challenge of organising Africa’s premier women’s football competition at short notice. Officials must finalise venues, logistics, security arrangements, and commercial agreements rapidly.
CAF is also under pressure to reassure teams, sponsors, broadcasters, and supporters about tournament stability.
Broader Implications for African Football
Morocco’s late withdrawal has raised questions about hosting reliability within African football governance. The outcome may influence future host selections and contingency planning by CAF.
As the situation unfolds, attention now turns to South Africa’s ability to deliver a smooth and credible WAFCON 2026.
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