Nigeria bid to host Formula 1 for the first time
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has announced that Nigeria has submitted a bid to host the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
In a statement released by the NSC, it was noted that they are in talks with authorities to host one of the Formula 1 Grand Prix editions in the country to project themselves and elevate the sport in Africa.
It was indicated that, as one of the largest countries on the continent, they aim to use the event to boost their tourist attractions and improve infrastructure, thereby bolstering their economic fortunes.
He disclosed that Opus Racing Promotions has been assigned to conduct talks with the motorsport authorities to finalise the deal.
“Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy with significant infrastructure, international appeal, and a dynamic private sector. This makes us uniquely positioned to deliver both the spectacle and logistical excellence Formula 1 demands.
“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, and economic growth,” portions of the statement read, as reported by Guardian Nigeria.
The move is said to be part of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s aim to reset, refocus, and relaunch the sector to open the way for foreign investment, increase exports, and boost Gross Domestic Product contribution.
The report states that invitations have been extended to Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, seven-time world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton, and Tilke Engineers & Architects—the firm known for designing several F1 circuits—to visit Abuja and meet with key stakeholders.
Nigeria will become the first African country in over three decades to host a Formula 1 event if the bid succeeds.
SB
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