Nigeria Submits Official Bid to Host Formula 1 Grand Prix in Abuja, Eyes 2028 Race

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In a historic move, Nigeria has officially declared its intention to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in the capital city, Abuja—marking a bold step toward bringing the world’s biggest motorsport event back to Africa for the first time in over 30 years.

The National Sports Commission (NSC), under the leadership of Chairman Shehu Dikko, confirmed the country’s bid after months of high-level consultations with Formula 1 stakeholders. The bid, if successful, would see Nigeria join the ranks of elite nations that host the globally televised Formula 1 race weekend, with a targeted timeline of 2028.

The Nigerian government has formally appointed Opus Racing Promotions, fronted by former Premier League footballer Marvin Sordell, to lead the negotiations with Formula 1 and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). Sordell’s team has also extended invitations to key motorsport stakeholders, including F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, Tilke Engineers—renowned for designing F1 circuits—and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, to visit Nigeria for further engagement and site evaluations.

“Nigeria is fully ready to bring Formula 1 back to Africa,” Dikko stated during the announcement. “Abuja offers a unique and exciting opportunity to showcase motorsport on the continent, supported by government infrastructure and a passionate population.”

Africa has not hosted a Formula 1 race since the South African Grand Prix in Kyalami in 1993. Nigeria now joins a short list of African nations, including South Africa and Rwanda, that have declared interest in reviving the sport on the continent. With strong federal backing, investor confidence, and strategic partnerships, the Nigerian bid has quickly gained momentum.

The proposed Abuja Grand Prix would not only boost Nigeria’s global image but also drive tourism, infrastructure, and youth engagement in motorsports. If successful, the race would be the first-ever Formula 1 Grand Prix hosted in West Africa, putting Nigeria on the global racing map.

Social media has erupted with excitement, with many Nigerians expressing hope that this marks the beginning of a new sporting era for the country.