The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, made this known during a press briefing, revealing that the proposal has been officially submitted to the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Formula 1 Management through Opus Racing Promotions, Nigeria’s official representative in the process.
According to Dikko, the Abuja Grand Prix project represents more than a sporting event — it is a statement of Nigeria’s readiness to showcase its capacity, creativity, and commitment to building world-class sports infrastructure.
“This bid is more than just about hosting a race. It is about showcasing Nigeria’s capacity, creativity, and commitment to developing world-class sporting infrastructure,” he said. “It is a landmark project that will redefine Nigeria’s place in global motorsport and sports tourism.”
The bid has reportedly gained strong backing from top government officials and private sector partners. Invitations have also been extended to Formula 1 Chief Executive Officer Stefano Domenicali, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, and Tilke Engineers & Architects — the global firm behind several iconic F1 circuits — to visit Abuja for inspection and stakeholder discussions.
This development follows Nigeria’s successful hosting of the inaugural E1 Lagos Grand Prix in March, the first-ever all-electric powerboat race in Africa. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described that event as a milestone for innovation and clean energy in sports.
Nigeria’s F1 bid comes as the country also vies to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with President Bola Tinubu calling on the Commonwealth Secretariat to grant Nigeria the honour of hosting the centenary edition — which would make it the first African nation to do so.
