Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC) has officially declared the country’s interest in hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix in the capital city, Abuja. In a statement issued on July 23, NSC chairman Shehu Dikko confirmed that Opus Racing Promotions has been appointed as Nigeria’s official representative to lead discussions with Formula 1 Management and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) on the feasibility of staging the race on Nigerian soil.
As part of the bid process, invitations have been extended to F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, seven‑time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, and Tilke Engineers & Architects—the firm behind many of the world’s premier racing circuits—to visit Nigeria and engage directly with both government and private‑sector stakeholders. Dikko emphasized that the project is envisioned not merely as a sporting spectacle but as a catalyst for tourism, infrastructure development, youth engagement, and broader economic growth, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s national development agenda.
If successful, Nigeria would become the first African nation to host an F1 Grand Prix since South Africa’s Kyalami circuit last featured on the calendar in 1993. While South Africa and Rwanda are also vying for the honour, Abuja’s bid is backed by plans for comprehensive motorsport infrastructure, including a purpose‑built circuit, karting facilities, hospitality zones, and a motorsport museum. With the current Formula 1 calendar operating at 24 races, organisers have indicated that adjustments—such as the planned biennial scheduling of certain European events—could create room for new venues, opening a window of opportunity for Nigeria’s pioneering bid.
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