By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has praised the city’s historic hosting of the E1 electric powerboat race, calling it a significant milestone in clean energy, innovation, and youth empowerment.
The event started on Friday and features high-speed races and qualifying trials at the Victoria Island Lagoon.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said, “By joining cities like Monaco, London, and Venice on the E1 calendar, Lagos has once again shown that we are bold, resilient, and ready to take our place on the global stage.”
He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his goodwill message, stating Nigeria’s commitment to sustainability and the blue economy.
He said, “Lagos truly shone as we hosted the world with warmth, pride, and excitement. I’m proud of everyone who helped make this event a success and of the amazing Lagosians who came out to support.”
The championship showcases the beauty of Lagos’ waterways through vibrant boat regattas. Competitors demonstrated skill, precision, and teamwork during the high-speed races.
Lagos aims to use its waterways for jobs, innovation, transport, and climate resilience.
1. Team Rafa: 136 points (pole position).
2. Team Brady: 135 points.
3. Aoki Racing: 125 points.
4. Team Brazil: 51 points.
5. Team Blue Rising: 114 points.
6. Westbrook Racing: 82 points.
7. Team Alula (LeBron James): 79 points.
8. Team Drogba Global Africa*: 66 points.
9. Team Miami: 32 points.
The event concludes on Sunday at the Marina waterfront, with thousands of fans expected to attend. African football legend Didier Drogba and partner Gabrielle Lemaire will be in attendance to support Team Drogba Global Africa. E1 founder and CEO Rodi Basso praised the Lagos round, saying, “The warm welcome in Lagos has been incredible. The passion of Nigerians made this historic E1 Lagos GP presented by FirstBank possible. Our ambition is to build a motorsport legacy in Africa. This weekend’s race is just the beginning, and today’s qualifying offered a thrilling preview of race day.”
The E1 Series is the world’s first all-electric powerboat championship, featuring celebrity-backed teams like Tom Brady, Rafael Nadal, and LeBron James.
