E1 CEO: Why we chose Lagos for Africa’s first electric boat race championship

Rodi Basso, the Chief Executive Officer of E1, the world’s first electric boat race championship, has disclosed the reasons for the selection of Lagos State to host the event.

Speaking at a media parley in Lagos on Tuesday, September 2, Basso disclosed that the E1 racing championship, holding in Africa for the first time, would be held between October 3 and 5, 2025, with about 300 international spectators expected.

The Italian entrepreneur, who expressed a passion for transforming entertainment, sports championships, and tourism in Lagos, said the championship is significant for the state’s economy, with nine teams owned by globally renowned sports icons competing for honours.

The CEO said the success of the championship since its 2021 launch in Monaco, Miami, Venice, and later Doha, inspired him to bring it to Lagos.

He further disclosed that nine teams, including Chelsea legend Didier Drogba and American actor Will Smith, will be in Lagos for the electric boat racing.

Basso stated: “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 earmarked to ensure success.”

Basso added that E1 is the world’s first all-electric race boat championship designed to accelerate change through marine electrification and protection of aquatic ecosystems.

VIDEO: Gridlock as stone-laden truck falls on Berger bridge in Lagos

Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor and member of the E1 Local Organising Committee, Samuel Eguge, described the announcement as a proud moment.

Eguge stated 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 noted that securing E1’s leadership required lengthy negotiations, which he said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was determined to conclude successfully.

He said: “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.”

On her part, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said the championship marks when Lagos opens its shores to international tourism through hosting a world-class sporting competition.

The commissioner said the event would not only contribute to the growth of the state’s GDP but also promote Lagos’ cultural heritage.

“It is an opportunity to showcase our hotels, restaurants, music, nightclubs, and beaches. Bringing such diverse events to Lagos gladdens my heart,” Benson-Awoyinka stated.

The Star