Team Brazil grabs pole as Lagos hosts Africa’s first Electric Boat GP

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

Team Brazil by Claure Group surged to pole position in a thrilling qualifying session ahead of the E1 Lagos GP, as the world’s first all-electric raceboat championship makes history this weekend with its debut on the African continent. The tropical waters of the Lagos Lagoon are hosting the pioneering race series, marking a major milestone for Nigeria as it cements its reputation as a global destination for world-class sporting events.

The qualifying session ended dramatically with Team Brazil by Claure Group securing the top spot ahead of Team Rafa and Aoki Racing Team, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown tomorrow.

Two points awarded to Team Rafa for second place in qualifying saw Rafael Nadal’s E1 team reclaim the championship lead from Team Brady by a single point.

NFL legend Tom Brady’s team, however, suffered technical difficulties that dashed their hopes of challenging for pole position. With the championship battle delicately poised, tomorrow’s race could prove decisive as Team Brady fights to defend its crown.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of E1, Rodi Basso, expressed delight at the warm reception in Nigeria. “The people and passion of Lagos have made this historic E1 Lagos GP possible, and I feel a great sense of pride that we have made racing here a reality,” he said.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who toured the fan zones, said the trial results will determine the line-up for Sunday’s qualifiers and final race, noting that the event marks E1’s debut in Africa and adds intensity to the penultimate race of the season.

Sunday’s race is expected to attract thousands of spectators to the Lagos waterfront as excitement builds across the city.

African football legend Didier Drogba and his partner, Gabrielle Lemaire — both instrumental in bringing E1 to the continent — will attend to support Team Drogba Global Africa as the championship continues its groundbreaking journey.