Team Brazil by Claure Group surged to pole position in a thrilling qualifying session ahead of the E1 Lagos GP presented by FirstBank, as the world’s first all-electric race boat 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 tomorrow.
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 tomorrow could prove decisive as Team Brady fights to defend its crown.
Rodi Basso, founder and Chief Executive Officer of E1 said: “The warm welcome we have received in Lagos has been incredible. The people and passion of Nigeria have made this historic E1 Lagos GP presented by FirstBank possible, and I feel a great sense of pride that we have made racing here a reality.
“Our ambition is to build a motorsport legacy in Africa. This weekend’s race is just the beginning, and today’s qualifying sessions have provided a thrilling taste of what’s to come on race day tomorrow.”
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 groundbreaking journey.
Championship standings
Team Rafa – 136 pts
Team Brady – 135 pts
Aoki Racing Team – 125 pts
Team Blue Rising – 114 pts
Westbrook Racing – 82 pts
Team AlUla Championed by LeBron James – 79 pts
Team Drogba – 66 pts
Team Brazil by Claure Group – 51 pts
Team Miami – 32 pts
This marks E1’s first race on the African continent. The Lagos race is the penultimate round, with the season finale in Miami. E1 RaceBirds reach speeds of 50 knots while hydrofoiling above water.
