South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has contradicted claims by his deputy that the country will host this year’s Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

McKenzie moved swiftly to issue a statement clarifying South Africa’s position after Deputy Minister Peace Mabe’s comments on Sunday that SA has been confirmed as hosts taking over from Morocco, who have reportedly pulled out of hosting at the eleventh hour.

McKenzie said Mabe’s comments are premature.

“As the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, I wish to provide clarity following remarks made by the Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture at the Hollywoodbets Super League Awards regarding the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON),” said McKenzie.

“South Africa has expressed its willingness to support the Confederation of African Football if required, should alternative hosting arrangements for the 2026 WAFCON become necessary.

“These engagements form part of ongoing discussions initiated by CAF as it considers various contingencies in line with the confederation’s responsible stewardship of the continental game.

“At this stage, no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament, and Morocco remains the officially designated host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. CAF has not yet triggered any alternative hosting process,” added McKenzie.

The WAFCON will be played from 17 March to 3 April.

Maybe surprised all and sundry over the weekend when speaking to SABC Sport about South Africa hosting the tournament.

“We took an opportunity that presented itself because we feel we have the necessary infrastructure and support (to host) the WAFCON. When Morocco said, ‘We are not able to host,’ South Africa said, ‘Yes. We are available. We are going to take it,'” Mabe told SABC Sport.

“It cannot be debatable because we have just hosted a successful G20 (summit in November) where heads of state – of different countries – were here. It tells you that in terms of hospitality, we are ready as well.

“We have the necessary infrastructure when it comes to stadiums. We have hosted the (2010 men’s) soccer World Cup before, so we are ready – we can host it.”

South Africa are also expected to bid for the 2028 Men’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a bid that could be joined by neighbouring countries Namibia and Botswana, while Lesotho is also thought to be keen.

CAF are yet to comment on the latest developments.