Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has celebrated Lagos’ historic debut as the first African city to host the E1 Electric Powerboat Race, describing the event as a remarkable stride in promoting clean energy, innovation, and youth empowerment.
In a post shared on X, the governor expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support and goodwill message, reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to sustainability and the blue economy. Sanwo-Olu noted that by joining the ranks of global cities such as Monaco, London, and Venice on the E1 calendar, Lagos has proven its boldness, resilience, and growing influence on the world stage.
The E1 Lagos Grand Prix, which kicked off on Friday at the Victoria Island Lagoon and concludes on Sunday, began with a colourful boat regatta that showcased the scenic beauty and cultural vibrancy of Lagos’ waterways. Saturday’s events featured intense qualifying rounds and high-speed races that displayed exceptional skill and teamwork among participants.
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the enthusiasm of residents who turned out in large numbers to support the event. “Lagos shone brightly as we welcomed the world with pride and excitement. I’m deeply proud of everyone who contributed to making this global showcase a reality,” he said.
At the recent African Blue Economy Summit, the governor highlighted Lagos’ long-term plan to harness its waterways for job creation, technological advancement, transportation, and climate resilience. He added that hosting the E1 race demonstrated how water-based activities can drive innovation, sustainability, and tourism, further strengthening the city’s vision for the blue economy.
During the qualifying session, Team Rafa, owned by tennis legend Rafael Nadal, claimed pole position, narrowly edging out Team Brady and Aoki Racing. The win placed Team Rafa at the top of the standings with 136 points, followed closely by Team Brady with 135, while Aoki Racing held third place with 125 points. Other teams included Team Blue Rising (114), Westbrook Racing (82), Team Alula owned by LeBron James (79), Team Drogba Global Africa (66), and Team Miami (32).
E1 founder and CEO Rodi Basso described the Lagos round as a milestone for both African motorsport and the championship’s international expansion. He praised the city’s warm hospitality and the passionate Nigerian crowd that made the event memorable.
Football legend Didier Drogba and his partner Gabrielle Lemaire, key figures in bringing the E1 Series to Africa, also attended the event to cheer on Team Drogba Global Africa.
The E1 Series, sanctioned by the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM), is the world’s first all-electric powerboat championship. Featuring hydrofoil-equipped “RaceBirds” capable of reaching 50 knots, the championship aims to combine thrilling competition with environmental sustainability.
The 2025 season includes stops in Jeddah, Doha, Monaco, and Miami, with Lagos proudly marking Africa’s entry into this groundbreaking global sporting event.
