Lagos Makes History as First African Host of E1 Electric Powerboat Championship
Lagos has made history as the first African city to host the E1 Electric Powerboat Championship
Lagos has made history as the first African city to host the E1 Electric Powerboat Championship, an event that marks a new era in sports, technology, and environmental sustainability. Held at the Victoria Island Lagoon, the E1 Lagos GP showcased the power of clean energy through advanced hydrofoil-equipped RaceBird boats capable of reaching speeds of 50 knots.
The race featured nine celebrity-backed teams, including Team Rafa (Rafael Nadal), Team Brady (Tom Brady), Team Blue Rising (Virat Kohli), Team Drogba Global Africa (Didier Drogba), and Team AlUla (LeBron James). Lagos now stands proudly beside cities like Monaco, London, Venice, Miami, and Doha as part of the global E1 circuit.
Nigeria’s Leap Toward a Green Future
President Bola Tinubu praised the event as “a statement of intent”, emphasizing that it signals Africa’s readiness to lead in clean energy and sustainable prosperity. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also expressed commitment to making the race a recurring global attraction, recognizing its potential to boost tourism, job creation, and innovation.
For Nigerians, this event is more than just a thrilling race—it’s an opportunity to tap into new industries. With the global shift toward electric mobility, local businesses can explore partnerships in renewable energy, battery technology, and marine innovation. The event also opens doors for Nigerian youths to develop careers in sports management, engineering, and environmental sustainability.
A New Wave for African Sports and Economy
According to E1 CEO Rodi Basso, Lagos was chosen for its “energy, creativity, and ambition,” aligning with E1’s vision of blending sports with clean technology. Beyond entertainment, the Lagos GP showcased how innovation and sustainability can work hand in hand to shape Africa’s economic future.
“Lagos brings incredible energy and ambition that matches E1’s DNA perfectly,” said Rodi Basso, CEO of E1.
The E1 Lagos GP isn’t just a sporting milestone—it’s a wake-up call for Nigerians to embrace clean technology and sustainable business opportunities. By investing in green innovation and leveraging tourism, Lagos can become a continental leader in sustainable development while inspiring a new generation of eco-conscious entrepreneurs.
