Lagos has officially been confirmed as the first African city to host the Electric 1 Grand Prix (E1 GP), the world’s first all-electric powerboat racing series, in October 2025.
The historic announcement positions Nigeria’s commercial hub alongside global destinations like Monaco, Venice, and Jeddah, solidifying Lagos’ reputation as a burgeoning force in international sports and sustainable innovation.
A new frontier in racing
Launched in 2020 by Alejandro Agag, founder of Formula E and Extreme E, and Rodi Basso, a former Formula 1 engineer, the E1 GP is designed to revolutionise marine mobility. The championship features futuristic electric RaceBird boats, engineered for high-speed, zero-emission competition on water.Backed by global icons including Rafael Nadal, Tom Brady, Didier Drogba, and Sergio Pérez, the series blends world-class sport with advocacy for clean energy, marine conservation, and innovation.
Why Lagos matters
Hosting the E1 GP is a defining milestone for Lagos, reflecting the series’ commitment to inclusivity and global expansion. Beyond sport, the event will transform Lagos’ waterfront into a global stage for culture, technology, and business.The economic impact is expected to be significant:
Tourism: Thousands of visitors will boost Lagos’ hospitality, entertainment, and creative sectors, while global broadcast coverage will showcase the city to millions.Job Creation and Local Business Growth:Vendors, artisans, logistics firms, and hospitality providers stand to benefit directly.
Innovation and Technology Transfer: The event highlights cutting-edge electric propulsion systems, creating opportunities for clean energy partnerships, e-mobility solutions, and smart city projects.
Environmental Advocacy: E1 GP will work with local NGOs on marine conservation, waterway clean-ups, and ecosystem restoration.
Youth Engagement: Educational programs and outreach will inspire Nigeria’s next generation of engineers, innovators, and athletes.
“Lagos is the heartbeat of Africa”
E1 CEO Rodi Basso described Lagos as a natural choice for the series’ African debut.“Lagos is more than just a host city; it is the heartbeat of Africa’s innovation, energy, and resilience. Bringing E1 here is not only about racing; it’s about creating a new legacy of clean technology, sustainability, and opportunity for the next generation.”
“When the RaceBird boats hit Lagos’ waterways in October 2025, the city won’t just be hosting a race, it will be racing into a future defined by innovation, sustainability, and economic opportunity.”
Government backing and vision
Representing Lagos State, Deputy Chief of Staff Samuel Egube, Commissioner for Tourism Toke Benson-Awoyinka, and Commissioner for Transportation Seun Osiyemi emphasised that the E1 Lagos GP is more than sport; it is a global statement of inclusivity, creativity, and excellence.Teksight Edge takes the lead
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) has appointed Teksight Edge as the exclusive concessionaire for sponsorship, media rights, and digital assets.“E1 Lagos is more than a GP; it is a declaration of Africa’s readiness to deliver world-class experiences with global impact,” said Charles Edosomwan, Lead Strategist at Teksight Edge.
Star power on the water
The E1 Lagos GP will feature celebrity-owned teams led by icons such as Didier Drogba, Rafael Nadal, Tom Brady, and Virat Kohli, racing in 100% electric RaceBird boats. Global stars including LeBron James and Will Smith are also backing the series, further elevating its profile.A cultural and sporting spectacle
As the only African stop on the calendar, Lagos promises a blend of sport, culture, and sustainability. The championship is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and highlight Nigeria as a hub for clean technology innovation.With the countdown underway, Lagos is preparing to welcome the world to its waters for a defining moment in Africa’s sporting and cultural evolution.
