The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced Nigeria’s bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, with Abuja as the proposed location, according to The Cable.
NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko revealed that Opus Racing Promotions will lead the effort as Nigeria’s official representative in negotiations with Formula 1.
Dikko has invited key F1 figures, including CEO Stefano Domenicali, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, and Tilke Engineers & Architects, renowned for designing iconic F1 circuits, to visit Nigeria and engage with government and private sector stakeholders.
“This is not just about sports,” Dikko emphasized, highlighting the potential for an F1 race to drive tourism, infrastructure development, youth engagement, and economic growth while showcasing Nigeria’s global influence.
If successful, Nigeria would be the first African nation to host a Grand Prix since South Africa in 1993.
However, South Africa and Rwanda are also competing to bring the prestigious event to the continent.
F1 races typically occur on purpose-built circuits, though some combine street roads with dedicated tracks.
