For the first time in over thirty years, Formula 1 could come back to Africa and Nigeria is now officially on the grid. The final African Grand Prix took place at the Kyalami Circuit south of Johannesburg in 1993. Presently, Nigeria adds to other nations in South Africa, Morocco and Rwanda in reviving Grand Prix racing back to the African continent.
Who Is Leading Nigeria’s F1 Bid?
The Nigerian bid is led by Marvin Sordell, a former Premier League player and Team GB Olympian and co-chief executive of Opus Race Promotions. Marvin has been granted an official mandate to communicate directly with Formula 1 and the FIA on behalf of the Nigerian Government.
Where Will the Race Take Place?
The proposed race would take place in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria. The plan includes the creation of a new F1-standard circuit, a karting circuit, hotels and a motorsport museum, so that it would be a multi-purpose motorsport venue.
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Does Nigeria Have Government Support?
Nigeria’s bid has already secured preliminary backing from the federal government. Shehu Dikko, chairman of the National Sports Commission, said the project is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope and Shared Prosperity” agenda. Dikko signaled a vision of tourism, youth participation, infrastructure and economic development being driven by the project as reported by The Times.
F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali has been asked to come to Abuja to assess the proposal. The dropping of the Dutch Grand Prix and the subsequent biennial rotation of Belgium from 2028 onward might create slots on the F1 calendar.
Lewis Hamilton, seven time world champion, called for F1 to come back to Africa, because it should not be ignored anymore.
