'Any further announcements will be made only once all required processes have been concluded and formal decisions taken,' said McKenzie.
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has denied that South Africa will be replacing Morocco as hosts of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations later this year.
McKenzie plays down Mabe comments
McKenzie issued a statement on Monday, after his own Deputy Minister Peace Mabe on Sunday told journalists at the Hollywood Bets Super League Awards that South Africa would begin preparations to host the tournament this week.
The sports minister, however, insisted “no formal decision” has been taken to move the tournament to South Africa.
“South Africa has expressed its willingness to support the Confederation of African Football (CAF) if required, should alternative hosting arrangements for the 2026 Wafcon become necessary,” said McKenzie.
“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.”
“The remarks made by the Deputy Minister reflect government’s longstanding engagement on supporting African football and South Africa’s confidence in its proven ability to host major international sporting events,” he continued.
“They do not constitute a formal confirmation or assumption of hosting responsibilities. The Department, with SAFA and stakeholders, will continue to engage with CAF in a structured and responsible manner.
“Any further announcements will be made only once all required processes have been concluded and formal decisions taken.”
‘It cannot be debatable’
Mabe had said on Sunday – “When Morocco said that they will not be able to host the Wafcon, South Africa said yes, we are able to host it.”
“It cannot be debatable because we just hosted the G20 where heads of states from different countries were here. In terms of hospitality, we are ready. We have the necessary infrastructure when it comes to stadiums. We have hosted the Soccer World Cup. From tomorrow, we will begin preparation.”
As it stands, the tournament is set to be played in Morocco from March 17 to April 3. Banyana Banyana are in Group B, along with the Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso and Tanzania.
