The Digest:
South Africa's Minister of Sport, Gayton McKenzie, has officially refuted claims that the country has replaced Morocco as the host of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. In a statement correcting earlier comments by his deputy, McKenzie clarified that "no formal decision" has been taken to relocate the tournament, and Morocco remains the official host scheduled to commence on March 17. He explained that South Africa had merely expressed a willingness to support the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as part of routine contingency planning, but that CAF has not activated any alternative hosting process. Formal approval from the South African cabinet and readiness of infrastructure would also be required for any such change.
Key Points:
- The minister's statement aims to quell confusion and premature speculation triggered by conflicting reports from within the same government department.
- It reaffirms the standard procedural protocols and high thresholds required for a last-minute change in hosting rights for a major continental tournament.
- The clarification underscores the stability of Morocco's position as host, emphasising the nation's experience after hosting the previous two editions.
- South Africa's expressed readiness highlights its role as a reliable standby option within CAF's contingency framework for event management.
- The incident exposes the potential for misinformation and diplomatic friction when unofficial statements about sensitive sporting arrangements are made public.
Sources: Punch Nigeria, BBC Sport, ESPN
