Gayton McKenzie, South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, has stated that the country is fully prepared to host the 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations if necessary.
Morocco, which staged the previous edition of the tournament, is scheduled to host the 2026 competition from March 17 to April 3. However, reports have indicated possible uncertainty around the planned dates. Reacting to the situation during a media engagement on Wednesday, McKenzie questioned Morocco’s readiness and said South Africa would be willing to step in should there be any challenges.
“If Morocco is not ready to host the WAFCON, they should tell us now because South Africa is ready. Why are we treating women’s football like this?” he said.
Gayton McKenzie also suggested that the reported hosting issues might be linked to broader political matters within African football administration.
“I believe this disruption in hosting the WAFCON is to try and ruin the great work Patrice Motsepe is doing at the Confederation of African Football,” he added.
Patrice Motsepe currently serves as president of the Confederation of African Football.
The 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations is expected to feature 12 teams and will also act as part of the qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women World Cup.
