The preparations for the next Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) have taken a surprising political turn, with Gayton McKenzie, South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, accusing Morocco of trying to coerce African football authorities over the 2026 tournament's hosting.
For the last six weeks, confusion has lingered about the venue for the 2026 edition of this significant continental tournament.
Originally, Morocco was confirmed as the host, which would have marked the third consecutive time the North African nation held the championship. However, in recent weeks, speculations have swirled around Morocco possibly reconsidering its hosting obligations.
This uncertainty emerged after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations held in January, which attracted criticism from certain sectors within the African football community over perceived preferential treatment given to the host nation.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Patrice Motsepe, the President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), reiterated last month that the WAFCON would go ahead in Morocco as scheduled. Nonetheless, rumors concerning Morocco's potential withdrawal continue to persist.
In light of the prevailing uncertainty, Minister McKenzie, who is known for his forthright public comments, has consistently emphasized South Africa's readiness to host the event should Morocco withdraw.
At a press briefing on Wednesday, McKenzie asserted that South Africa possesses the necessary infrastructure and experience to organize a major continental event on short notice.
His confidence is hardly unfounded, as South Africa has a proven track record, having successfully hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup along with several other significant continental competitions.
While recognizing Morocco's capability in managing the recent Africa Cup of Nations, McKenzie accused Moroccan officials of undermining CAF leadership through their indecisiveness about hosting WAFCON.
“If Morocco is prepared to host the WAFCON due to their efficient handling of the AFCON, then they should proceed,” McKenzie remarked.
“However, if they are not, we wish to express that we are not lacking in stadiums or proper infrastructure. We will not let ourselves be held ransom by countries that have less than we do.”
He emphasized that South Africa will not remain passive while the future of women's football hangs in the balance.
“We refuse to allow women’s football to be treated with such disrespect. We won't wait for anyone,” he added.
McKenzie even implied that Morocco’s hesitation could cast a shadow on the CAF leadership. He clarified, however, that this view should not be attributed directly to the CAF president.
“I’m not afraid to state it. If Morocco decides to pull out, South Africa is prepared to step in, but this should not be credited to him,” he remarked.
The minister's statements represent a significant political critique of Morocco's influence within African football governance.
Interestingly, CAF President Motsepe has not commented on the alleged coercive tactics or negotiations regarding hosting rights.
Whether Morocco indeed plans to withdraw from organizing the tournament remains uncertain. Analysts suggest that relinquishing such a crucial continental event could hinder Morocco's broader ambitions of establishing itself as a global football hub.
Morocco has heavily invested in sporting infrastructure and major sporting events, targeting objectives that reach beyond the scope of merely African competitions. Exiting WAFCON could undermine this strategy and reduce its standing in continental football politics.
Moving beyond the political maneuvers, this ambiguity poses additional challenges for teams involved, especially for Nigeria’s women’s national football team, the defending champions.
Nigeria has consistently excelled in this tournament, boasting a record ten championships. The team’s latest victory occurred in the last edition, where they triumphed over the Moroccan women’s team in the final.
As the 2026 tournament approaches, the Super Falcons face heavy expectations as they pursue their unprecedented 11th title. With the competition set to debut in March, uncertainties about the host nation could disrupt logistical arrangements and preparations for several teams across the continent.
Regardless, Nigeria’s seasoned presence on the African stage indicates that the Super Falcons are unlikely to be fazed by the surrounding political issues. For them, the goal remains steadfast: to defend their title and reaffirm their status as leaders in African women’s football.
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