South Africa’s sports minister Gayton McKenzie says “no formal decision has been taken to relocate” the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) away from Morocco after his deputy announced that South Africa would step in and stage the finals.

McKenzie issued a clarifying statement after Peace Mabe declared the nation “will be hosting” the tournament, which is scheduled to kick off on 17 March.

“When Morocco said ‘We are not able to host’, South Africa, we said ‘Yes, we are available’. We are going to take it,” Mabe later told SABC Sport after her announcement at an awards ceremony on Sunday.

But later in the evening McKenzie said that Morocco “remains the officially designated host” of Wafcon 2026.

“[The remarks made] do not constitute a formal confirmation or assumption of hosting responsibilities,” he added.

“The Confederation of African Football (Caf) has not yet triggered any alternative hosting process.

“South Africa has expressed its willingness to support Caf if required, should alternative hosting arrangements for the 2026 Wafcon become necessary.

“These engagements form part of ongoing discussions initiated by Caf as it considers various contingencies in line with [its] responsible stewardship of the continental game.”

Caf has been contacted for comment.