Full Breakdown
LeBron James Boosts Angola’s E1 Electric Powerboat Championship
By Drooid · · How we work
The Event in Luanda
NBA star LeBron James and actor Will Smith arrived in Luanda for the UIM E1 World Championship Grand Prix on September 12-13 2026. Both own teams in the all-electric series—James backs Team AlUla, Smith is part of Westbrook Racing. The race, the series’ first Grand Prix in Africa, featured ten boats at the Clube Naval de Luanda.
Background & Context
The E1 series, launched in 2024, pairs high-speed racing with a sustainability agenda, similar to Formula E. After debuting in Lagos in 2025, the championship has attracted celebrity owners such as Tom Brady, Didier Drogba, Rafael Nadal, James and Smith. Its goal is to showcase green marine technology while raising the sport’s profile.
Key Figures & Groups
- LeBron James — NBA forward for the Philadelphia 76ers; investor in Team AlUla.
- Will Smith — Oscar-winning actor; co-owner of Westbrook Racing.
- President João Lourenço — President of Angola, met the visitors.
- Jamie Copas — Chief executive of the E1 series.
- Omar Prata — Journalist for *Novo Jornal*.
- Marcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel — Angola’s minister for tourism.
Timeline
- Sept 12-13 2026 – E1 Grand Prix held in Luanda; Team AlUla competes.
- Sept 15 2026 – Reports note James became a team owner in January 2025 (ClutchPoints).
Data & Statistics
- Team AlUla finished 7th of 10.
- Tom Brady’s team secured 1st place; Steve Aoki’s boat placed 6th.
- Team Brady pilot Emma Kimilainen praised the Angolan organization as “amazing” (Wake Up Singapore).
Official Statements & Responses
E1 chief executive Jamie Copas said celebrity owners’ “huge followings” bring attention to the series. President Lourenço met James and Smith to discuss using their platforms to promote tourism, film and basketball in Angola.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I see the potential it could bring to project the city at a time when the government is trying to work on tourism,” — Omar Prata.
- “Great to win the first Luanda GP, we made history with that one and I’m super happy about my whole team and especially my teammate Sam, who did an amazing job,” — Team Brady.
On-the-Ground Reports
Local fans crowded the waterfront to see James and Smith. A basketball clinic hosted by James let him interact with young Angolan players, generating viral social-media moments.
Why It Matters / Impact
The visit supports Angola’s strategy to become a hub for international sport and sustainable technology. Pairing high-profile personalities with an eco-focused series aims to attract foreign investment and boost tourism, while highlighting athletes’ growing role as sports owners.