Nigeria has officially submitted a bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in Abuja — a move that could bring the world’s most prestigious motorsport event back to Africa for the first time since 1993.
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, confirmed that the proposal has been submitted to the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Formula 1 Management through Opus Racing Promotions, Nigeria’s official representative in the negotiations.
According to Dikko, the initiative goes beyond staging a global sporting event. “This bid is more than just about hosting a race. It is about showcasing Nigeria’s capacity, creativity, and commitment to developing world-class sporting infrastructure,” he said. “It is a landmark project that will redefine Nigeria’s place in global motorsport and sports tourism.”
The proposed Abuja Grand Prix enjoys strong backing from top government officials and private sector stakeholders. Invitations have already been extended to Formula 1 Chief Executive Officer Stefano Domenicali, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, and Tilke Engineers & Architects — the renowned design firm behind several modern F1 circuits — to visit Abuja for site inspections and stakeholder meetings.
The country’s bid follows the successful hosting of the inaugural E1 Lagos GP in March, which marked the first-ever African edition of the all-electric powerboat racing series. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had described that event as a testament to Nigeria’s growing commitment to innovation and sustainable energy.
Nigeria is also in contention to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with President Bola Tinubu urging the Commonwealth to award the centenary edition to the country — a move that would make Nigeria the first African nation to host the Games.
