Didier Drogba Introduces E1 Electric Powerboat Racing to Africa with Lagos Event
Didier Drogba has disclosed that he is part of an exclusive WhatsApp group featuring some of the most renowned athletes and celebrities worldwide.
The former Chelsea and Ivory Coast football legend shares this chat with icons such as Tom Brady, LeBron James, Virat Kohli, Rafael Nadal, and actor Will Smith. All members are team owners in the E1 Series, the globe’s pioneering all-electric international powerboat racing championship.
Now entering its second season, the E1 Series is set to make its African debut with a thrilling race scheduled for October 4-5 in Lagos, Nigeria. Nine teams will compete on the scenic lagoon that runs through the bustling city.
Drogba’s Vision
For Drogba, this event marks the realization of a long-held ambition.
“From the outset, our mission with E1 was clear: to bring this innovative race to Africa,” Drogba shared with BBC Sport Africa.
He added, “We want to showcase our rich heritage and vibrant culture. Lagos is an ideal location because it embodies energy and diversity.”
Gabrielle Lemaire, Drogba’s business partner and vice president of the Didier Drogba Foundation, emphasized that Nigeria’s largest metropolis provides an inspiring setting for the race.
“With such a youthful population, Lagos presents a unique platform to promote sustainability and environmental awareness,” she explained.
The E1 Series champions a vision of “leading the way toward a sustainable future in marine sports,” utilizing cutting-edge clean technology designed to restore and protect coastal ecosystems. Past venues have included iconic locations like Venice, Monaco, Doha, Lake Como, and Dubrovnik, with Miami slated to host the season finale.