Rodi Basso, Chief Executive Officer of E1, the world’s first electric race boat championship, on Tuesday announced Lagos as host of its debut season.
Basso, an Italian entrepreneur, said this at a media parley where he expressed passion for transforming entertainment, sports championships, and tourism in Lagos.
He disclosed that the E1 racing championship would hold over three days from Oct. 3, with about 300 international spectators expected.
Basso added that the event is significant for Lagos’ economy, with nine teams owned by globally renowned sports icons competing for honours.
He noted that the success of the championship since its 2021 launch in Monaco, Miami, Venice, and later Doha, inspired him to bring it to Lagos.
“The championship sees nine teams race in the RaceBird, a state-of-the-art electric boat that uses hydrofoil technology.
“As with past editions, the event will be buzzing with activities, with nearly 100 million US dollars earmarked to ensure success,” Basso said.
According to him, E1 is the world’s first all-electric race boat championship designed to accelerate change through marine electrification and protection of aquatic ecosystems.
Similarly, Samuel Eguge, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Lagos Governor and member of the E1 Local Organising Committee, described the announcement as a proud moment.
He noted that the championship places Lagos alongside leading global cities such as Venice, Miami, and Monaco.
Eguge said the event validates Lagos’ status as a city of aquatic splendour, and Africa’s foremost hub for sport and entertainment.
He explained that securing E1’s leadership required lengthy negotiations, which the governor was determined to conclude successfully.
“The race will boost GDP and expand Lagos’ economy, projecting both Lagos and Nigeria to the world.
“It creates opportunities for hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs, while setting the stage for December festivities,” Eguge said.
According to him, the championship reinforces Lagos’ readiness for entertainment and its role as Africa’s leading hub for sport and leisure.
Also, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Commissioner for Tourism, expressed delight at the development, saying she worked hard to help actualise it in Lagos.
She said the event marks a period when Lagos opens its shores to international tourism through hosting a world-class sporting competition.
“It is an opportunity to showcase our hotels, restaurants, music, nightclubs, and beaches. Bringing such diverse events to Lagos gladdens my heart,” Benson-Awoyinka said.
She added that the competition is not just about sport, but about uniting local and international communities for fun and entertainment.
“We are committed to promoting Lagos’ cultural heritage through this sporting event, fostering sustainable tourism and cultural education.
“My passion for the championship is reflected through strategic partnerships with both local and international stakeholders,” she said.
