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 continues to build its reputation as a global destination for world-class sporting events.
The dramatic qualifying session ended 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 today.
The two points awarded to Team Rafa for second place in qualifying sees Rafael Nadal’s E1 team reclaim the Championship lead from Team Brady by a single point.
The NFL legend’s team suffered technical difficulties which ended their hopes of challenging for pole position.
The Championship battle hangs in the balance and a win today could prove decisive as Team Brady fights to defend its crown.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of E1, Rodi Basso, said “The warm welcome we have received in Lagos has been incredible. The people and passion of Nigeria has made this historic E1 Lagos GP possible and l feel a greatb sense of pride that we have made racing here a reality.“Our ambition is to build motorsport legacy in Africa. This weekend’s race is just the beginning and yesterday’s qualifying sessions have provided a thrilling taste of what’s to come on race day today”
Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu who toured the fan zones said the trial results will set the line-up for Sunday’s qualifiers and the final race as the event marks the E1 Championship’s debut in Africa, adding extra intensity to the penultimate race of the season.
Sunday’s race is expected to draw thousands of spectators to the waterfront as excitement builds across Lagos.
African football icon Didier Drogba and his partner Gabrielle Lemaire, instrumental in bringing E1 to the continent, will attend to support his team, Team Drogba Global Africa, as the Championship continues its ground breaking journey.
Reporting by Yemisi Dada