Morocco has unexpectedly withdrawn as hosts of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), a dramatic decision that comes barely two months before the tournament is due to begin and in the wake of bitter recriminations following the chaotic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.

South Africa was confirmed as the replacement host on Sunday night, with the announcement made by the country’s Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, during the Super League Awards ceremony in Johannesburg.

While no formal explanation has been issued by the Moroccan authorities, the withdrawal follows weeks of intense public anger and political debate inside the country after Morocco’s 1-0 defeat to Senegal in the AFCON final in Rabat – a match that descended into disorder and left a lasting scar on the tournament.