Nigeria Makes Bold Bid to Host Africa’s First F1 Grand Prix Since 1993
Nigeria is in advanced talks to become the first African country to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix since South Africa last held the race in 1993, with Abuja being positioned as the potential host city.
The National Sports Commission (NSC), under the leadership of its chairman Shehu Dikko, has appointed Opus Racing Promotions as the official representative for Nigeria’s bid. The move marks a significant push to bring one of the world’s most prestigious motorsport events to West Africa.
“We are exploring all possibilities to bring Formula 1 to Nigeria as soon as practicable – not just as a sporting event, but as a catalytic driver of tourism, infrastructure development, youth engagement, economy and indeed soft power for Nigeria,” said Dikko.
To strengthen the bid, the NSC has extended invitations to key figures in the F1 world, including Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1; Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion; and Tilke Engineers & Architects, renowned for designing F1 circuits globally. The aim is to foster direct engagement with both government and private sector stakeholders.
“A Nigerian Grand Prix would not only boost national pride but also strengthen our infrastructure, attract private investment, and create economic opportunities and jobs, firmly positioning sports as a vital pillar of Nigeria’s GDP growth and unity,” Dikko added.
If successful, Nigeria would beat out competition from South Africa and Rwanda, who are also in talks to host future F1 races.
