Former PL star Marvin Sordell leads proposal to bring F1 race to Nigeria with gov’t support.
Former Premier League footballer Marvin Sordell is spearheading a high-stakes bid to bring a Formula 1 Grand Prix to Nigeria. His company, Opus Race Promotions, has secured initial government backing and is negotiating with Formula 1 and FIA officials to develop race infrastructure—including a modern circuit, hotels, karting facilities, and a motorsport museum in Abuja.
While F1 has grown global interest in expansion, the calendar is capped at 24 races. Nigeria joins bids from Rwanda and South Africa, though Thailand currently appears the frontrunner for upcoming additions. The proposal is being pitched as a strategic move to boost tourism, technology development, and Nigeria’s global image.
If approved, the project would mark Nigeria’s first foray into international motorsport hosting. Estimates suggest billions in investment and an opportunity to showcase the country’s potential for global sporting events. Critics note potential environmental impacts, funding feasibility, and the need to evaluate long-term economic benefits beyond tourist tickets.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Sports continues to evaluate feasibility, with analysts watching closely how the federal and state governments support infrastructure and regulatory alignment. A successful bid could transform Abuja into an emerging motorsport hub and redefine regional sporting ambitions.
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