Lagos Makes History as Africa Hosts Its First E1 World Championship Race

 Lagos Makes History as Africa Hosts Its First E1 World Championship Race


By Eniola Olagunju

Lagos etched its name into the global sporting map over the weekend as it hosted Africa’s first-ever round of the UIM E1 World Championship, the world’s premier all-electric powerboat racing series. The two-day event, held on the Victoria Island Lagoon, drew several spectators and marked a new chapter for Nigeria in sustainable sports innovation.

The Lagos Grand Prix, which ran from October 4 to 5, 2025, showcased the continent’s growing capacity to host world-class sporting events. The atmosphere along the Lagos waterways was electric as nine international teams competed in their futuristic “RaceBird” boats — hydrofoil-powered vessels designed to glide above the water at speeds of up to 90 km/h without emitting pollution or noise.

Team Brazil, led by drivers Timmy Hansen and Ieva Millere-Hagin, emerged champions after a very competitive weekend performance. They won both qualifying and final rounds to secure their maiden victory of the season with 38 points. Team Blue Rising finished second, while Team Drogba Global Africa backed by Ivorian legend Didier Drogba took third place, delighting African fans who cheered from the waterfront stands.

Lagos’ hosting of the E1 race was not only a sporting achievement but also a major boost for Nigeria’s reputation as a capable organizer of global events. The Lagos State Government partnered with the E1 organizers to facilitate the competition, introducing temporary traffic diversions and security measures around the Marina and Five Cowries Creek. Despite the logistical challenges, the event ran smoothly.

“Lagos State is truly setting the pace and living up to its status as Nigeria’s foremost commercial city in sports development,” Hon. Olopade, Director General, National Sports Commission, said. “Governor Sanwo-Olu must be commended for his forward-thinking leadership and strong commitment to advancing sports at all levels.”

Beyond the competition, the event offered a festival of culture and tourism. Local artists performed on stage between races, while visitors explored exhibitions that celebrated Nigeria’s coastal heritage. Hotels and restaurants in Victoria Island and Lekki benefited from the economic ripple effect of the championship.

The Lagos race was the penultimate stop of the 2025 E1 season, setting the stage for the grand finale in Miami. Team Brady continues to lead the overall standings with 154 points, closely followed by Team Rafa with 151, while Team Blue Rising sits in third with 145.

For Nigeria, the success of the E1 Lagos GP was more than a weekend of racing, it was a representation of capacity, ambition, and continental pride.

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