Lagos State is set to make history as the first African city to host the prestigious E1 Championship, the world’s first all-electric powerboat racing series. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu made the announcement on Sunday via his official X account, confirming that the event will take place on October 4 and 5, 2025.
“This weekend, we were in Monaco experiencing the E1 Racing Championship. It was a good reminder of how innovation, determination, and bold ideas can come together to create something truly groundbreaking,” the governor said.
The E1 Championship was launched with the goal of transforming marine mobility and promoting clean energy. By introducing high-speed electric powerboats that glide across the water without emissions, the series is reimagining what water-based racing can look like in a more sustainable future.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his excitement at bringing this global event to Nigeria’s commercial capital. “I’m proud to share that Lagos will become the first African city to host the E1 Championship. That’s a major milestone for the sport and for what it says about our city,” he stated.
Beyond the thrill of the sport, the championship offers an opportunity for Lagos to take a bold step forward in its ambitions around sustainable energy, marine technology, and eco-tourism. Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the E1 event aligns with Lagos’ broader goals to participate in global conversations around climate innovation and green transport.
“It shows that Lagos is ready to be part of the global conversation on clean energy, sustainability, and new approaches to marine transportation,” he added.
Hosting the E1 Championship is also expected to have significant cultural and economic impact. According to the governor, it provides a platform to showcase Lagos’ vibrant spirit, diverse heritage, and immense potential on the world stage.
“This is an opportunity to show the world what makes Lagos special, our culture, our energy, and our people. It’s a chance to welcome visitors, share our stories, and highlight the incredible potential of our city,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor also acknowledged the role of Afreximbank in making the event possible. The bank is an official partner of the championship and is backing Team Drogba, a participating team led by football icon Didier Drogba.
“I’m grateful to Afreximbank for their support, not just as a partner but as a believer in what Lagos can achieve. Their investment in Team Drogba and their commitment to this vision mean a great deal,” Sanwo-Olu noted.
The E1 Championship, also known as the UIM E1 World Championship, has held races in major cities across the globe including Monaco, Venice, and Rotterdam. Lagos joining the lineup places the city among leading global destinations embracing the future of sustainable sports.
As Lagos prepares to host this historic event, it not only marks a first for the continent but also signals the city’s readiness to lead Africa in innovation-led sporting and environmental ventures. The championship will bring global attention to Lagos, positioning it as a hub for cutting-edge ideas and world-class experiences.
Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded his announcement with optimism, calling the event a “landmark moment” for the city.
“We’re bringing a world-class sporting event to our shores, we’re opening a new chapter for Lagos, and I can’t wait for the world to see what we have to offer.” The countdown to October 2025 has officially begun.
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