African football was thrown into uncertainty on Sunday evening after South Africa announced it will host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), replacing Morocco less than seven weeks before the tournament’s scheduled kickoff.

South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, confirmed the development during a national television broadcast, saying the country stepped in after Morocco indicated it could no longer stage the tournament.

“We seized an opportunity that presented itself because we have the necessary infrastructure and support,” Mabe said. “When Morocco said they wouldn’t be able to organise it, we said South Africa is available and ready to host.”

The tournament, initially slated to run from March 17 to April 3, may now be postponed by up to two weeks to give South Africa adequate preparation time. However, no revised dates have been officially confirmed.

Neither Moroccan authorities nor the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have issued a formal explanation for the sudden withdrawal. The decision has surprised many observers, particularly as Morocco had already designated venues in Rabat, Casablanca and Fez.