Nigeria Submits Bid to Host Formula 1 Grand Prix in Abuja, Eyes Return of F1 to Africa After 32 Years

Nigeria has officially submitted a bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in Abuja, a move that could see the prestigious motorsport return to the African continent for the first time since 1993.

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, confirmed that the proposal has been sent to the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Formula 1 Management through Opus Racing Promotions — Nigeria’s accredited representative in the discussions.

According to Dikko, the Abuja Grand Prix bid represents more than just a sporting ambition. “This is about showcasing Nigeria’s capacity, creativity, and commitment to building world-class sporting infrastructure. It’s a landmark project that will redefine our nation’s standing in global motorsport and sports tourism,” he said.

The ambitious bid has received strong backing from top government officials and private sector partners. Invitations have also been extended to F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, and Tilke Engineers & Architects — the firm responsible for most of the world’s modern F1 circuits — to visit Abuja for site inspections and stakeholder engagements.

Nigeria’s F1 push follows the successful hosting of the inaugural E1 Lagos Grand Prix in March, the first-ever all-electric powerboat race held in Africa. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described that event as a testament to the state’s commitment to innovation and clean energy.

Meanwhile, Nigeria is also in the running to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with President Bola Tinubu calling on the Commonwealth to award the centenary edition to Nigeria — a move that would make it the first African nation to host the Games.