The controversy is escalating less than two weeks before the kickoff of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), scheduled from March 17 to April 3, 2026, in Morocco. On Wednesday, March 4, 2026, South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, publicly attacked Morocco, stating that the uncertainty surrounding the organization of the tournament endangers women’s football in Africa.
A South African Anger Amid Organizational Ambiguity
According to the Associated Press, McKenzie criticized Morocco for leaving doubts just 13 days before the start of the competition. In remarks reported by the agency, he notably stated that South Africa “will not be held hostage” and is ready to take on the organization if necessary, while denouncing the lack of clarity regarding the tournament’s continuation in Morocco.
This statement comes as the CAF has yet to make any detailed official announcements to dispel all uncertainties. ESPN highlights, for example, that several key logistical elements (final schedule, accreditation arrangements, appointment of certain officials, etc.) were still not fully secured publicly as the deadline approaches, fueling rumors and speculation.
The CAF Responds: “Clarification in the Coming Days”
According to the AP, the CAF indicated that the matter is receiving “urgent” and “high-level” attention, and that a clarification would come “in the coming days.”
Meanwhile, the CAF’s official communication continues to present the tournament as scheduled to take place in Morocco on the planned dates, with teams already in the preparation phase.
A Already Tense Context
This situation revives a climate of tension, as the host selection for the WAFCON has already seen contradictory statements in recent weeks, particularly from South Africa, before official clarifications.
And Now?
With 13 days until the theoretical launch of the competition (March 17, 2026), the focus is now on a clear statement from the CAF (and/or Moroccan authorities): definitive confirmation of the tournament’s continuation, logistical adjustments, or activation of an alternative plan. In the meantime, Gayton McKenzie’s remarks add further pressure on the governing bodies at a crucial moment for the credibility and visibility of women’s football in Africa.
