Electric Waves in Lagos: E1 Powerboat Championship Makes Thrilling African Debut

The Lagos Lagoon came alive on Saturday as sleek electric powerboats sliced through its waters, marking the African debut of the E1 World Championship — the planet’s first-ever all-electric powerboat racing series.

With roaring cheers and a skyline backdrop shimmering in the tropical sun, Lagos cemented its place on the global motorsport map during the E1 Lagos Grand Prix qualifying trials held on October 4, 2025.

> “Lagos has the energy, the drive for change, and a shared vision of sustainability, tourism, and technology,” said E1 CEO Rodi Basso, explaining why Nigeria’s megacity was chosen as the gateway for the sport’s African expansion.

The Lagos round marked the penultimate race of Season Two, bringing the championship to its fourth continent — a major milestone in E1’s rapidly growing global footprint.

E1’s futuristic RaceBird boats run on zero-emission electric propulsion and use cutting-edge hydrofoil technology, letting them glide above the waves while minimizing environmental impact. Beyond racing, the series backs marine conservation and coastal research, showing that high-speed excitement and sustainability can coexist on the same course.

Basso revealed that E1 plans to expand from nine to twelve teams and double its race calendar from seven to fifteen events in the coming seasons. The championship is also seeking €20 million ($23.5 million) in new investment, with an eye on a €500 million valuation by 2030.

> “We’re not in a rush,” Basso said confidently. “But we have a compelling plan to accelerate over the next three to four seasons.”

On the water, Team Rafa — linked to tennis legend Rafael Nadal — reclaimed the championship lead by a single point after finishing second in the Lagos qualifiers, overtaking Team Brady, owned by NFL icon Tom Brady, whose boat suffered technical issues.

> “Lagos will be the road to Miami,” Basso teased, referring to the season finale set in the United States.

The E1 Championship is also powered by global celebrity investors like LeBron James and Didier Drogba, whose influence is amplifying the sport’s worldwide visibility.

> “Their reach is compelling — it’s an insurance for growth,” Basso said.

Meanwhile, local fans couldn’t hide their excitement.

> “It’s been a wonderful experience,” said Tade Adekunle, a marketing professional. “I’ve never seen anything like this before. The crowd turnout was massive.”

> “It’s amazing to see Lagosians embrace this new sport,” added Sandra Chioma, a program manager. “Lagos State is doing a fantastic job — I’ll definitely attend again.”

The E1 Lagos GP wasn’t just a race — it was a statement. A fusion of speed, sustainability, and star power that showcased Africa’s readiness to host world-class innovation on water.

As electric waves rolled across the lagoon, one thing was clear: Lagos didn’t just host the race — it owned it.

Written by Gold Oyeniran