Sports
First Bank, Oando, Tolaram Group, Others Throw Weight Behind E1 Lagos GP
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The E1 Lagos GP slated for October 2 to 5, 2025, is gradually getting more support, some a few corporate organisations coming in as sponsors.
First Bank of Nigeria, Oando, Spiro, Sunbeth, and Tolaram Group (with Guinness Stout, Johnnie Walker, and The Singleton) are the companies that have showed interest in the water sporting event taking place on the Lagos Lagoon.
At a Stakeholder Immersion Session, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the first all-electric powerboat race in Africa said these partnerships demonstrate the commitment of leading brands to Lagos’ vision of hosting world-class events that inspire pride and create lasting impact.
It noted that with these collaborations and the alignment achieved during the immersion session, the E1 Lagos GP is positioned to set a new benchmark for sports, innovation, and sustainability in Africa, while projecting Lagos as a hub of culture, commerce, and global excellence.
“The E1 Lagos GP is more than a sporting event; it is a statement of Lagos’ readiness to lead Africa into a sustainable future, where innovation and culture meet global standards.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that the people, the media, and all partners tell this story with one voice,” the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotosho, stated.
On his part, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor of Lagos State and Chairman of the E1 Lagos GP LOC, Mr Samuel Egube, said, “Today marks not only an affirmation of our sponsors’ commitment, but a promise that we will uphold clarity, professionalism, and integrity in how Lagos tells its story on the global stage.
“We are proud to stand with First Bank as our Presenting Partner, and with all our partners who share in our vision for sport, innovation, and legacy.”
The Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at First Bank of Nigeria, Mr Olayinka Ijabiyi, disclosed that, “First Bank is honoured to take its place as the Presenting Partner of the E1 Lagos GP.
“Our heritage of over 130 years in supporting innovation and development in Nigeria aligns perfectly with this groundbreaking event. We are delighted to support a project that not only showcases sport at its finest but also emphasizes sustainability and youth engagement.”
By Adedapo Adesanya
Chelsea Football Club on Wednesday sacked head coach Liam Rosenior after a string of losses that put the London club on the brink of losing out on European football.
The English coach, who was appointed from Chelsea’s sister club, RS Strasbourg of France, was at the helm of the club for 106 days.
Rosenior signed a five-and-a-half-year deal after arriving from the French club, owned by Chelsea co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital.
However, he managed just 11 wins in 23 matches across all competitions, and Tuesday’s 3-0 defeat at Brighton was Chelsea’s fifth consecutive league defeat without scoring, the club’s worst scoreless run since 1912.
Rosenior described the performance as “indefensible” and “unacceptable” after facing angry chants from Chelsea’s travelling supporters on the south coast.
The defeat led to the Blues slipping to seventh in the Premier League, seven points behind Liverpool, occupying the fifth and final Champions League spot.
“Liam has always conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism following his appointment midway through the season,” Chelsea said in a statement.
“This has not been a decision the club has taken lightly, however, recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards, with still so much more to play for this season,” it added.
Calum McFarlane will take over as interim manager until the end of the season.
McFarlane, who was Rosenior’s assistant, was in charge of a 1-1 draw against Manchester City and a defeat at Fulham in January after previous boss Enzo Maresca was sacked.
“As the club works to bring stability to the head coach position, we will undertake a process of self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment,” Chelsea added.
Rosenior won five of his 13 games in the Premier League and led the Blues to four victories in the FA Cup – all against lower-league opposition – to reach the semi-finals.
McFarlane’s first game in charge comes on Sunday when Chelsea face Leeds at Wembley for a place in the FA Cup final (3 p.m. Nigerian time).
Midweek football arrives with major storylines across England, Spain and France as title races tighten, European battles continue and pressure builds on several giants. From Manchester City’s pursuit of Arsenal to Real Madrid’s growing urgency and PSG’s need for a response, fans can catch the action live on SuperSport via DStv and GOtv.
Premier League: City Apply Pressure, Chelsea Seek Relief
The Premier League headlines the midweek schedule with important fixtures at both ends of the table. Tuesday begins at 8:00 p.m. as Brighton host Chelsea. Chelsea are enduring a difficult run after four straight league defeats and badly need a response, while Brighton remain in the hunt for a top-half finish after an encouraging draw with Tottenham.
Wednesday features Bournemouth against Leeds United at 8:00 p.m. Bournemouth continue to build momentum and are pushing towards the European places, while Leeds arrive in confident mood after an emphatic win in their last outing.
Also at 8:00 p.m., Burnley welcome Manchester City, whose victory over Arsenal has reignited the title race. Another win would put additional pressure on the leaders. Burnley, meanwhile, need points after a heavy weekend defeat.
All Premier League matches air live on SS Premier League (DStv Ch. 203, GOtv Ch. 65).
La Liga: Barcelona Close In, Madrid Cannot Slip
Spain’s title race remains the central focus this week, with Barcelona in command and Real Madrid needing an immediate response.
At 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Real Madrid host Alaves. Madrid have dropped points in recent matches and cannot afford another setback if they are to keep pace with the leaders.
Wednesday begins at 6:00 p.m. as Atletico Madrid travel to Elche. Atletico will look to recover quickly after cup disappointment, while Elche remain desperate for survival points. Later at 8:30 p.m., Barcelona face Celta Vigo. Barcelona are in strong form and know another victory would move them closer to the title.
Thursday’s standout fixture is at 8:30 p.m. as Real Oviedo host Villarreal. Villarreal continue to defend their place in the top four, while Oviedo are pushing to strengthen their own European ambitions.
La Liga matches air live on SS La Liga (DStv Ch. 204, GOtv Ch. 62).
Ligue 1: PSG Look to Reassert Control
The Ligue 1 title race has tightened, placing fresh attention on Paris Saint-Germain. At 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, PSG host Nantes. Defeat last time out reduced their advantage at the top, and they will be expected to respond strongly against a Nantes side battling near the bottom of the table.
Ligue 1 matches air live on SS Football (DStv Ch. 205, GOtv Ch. 61), with selected fixtures on SS Africa 1 (DStv Ch. 207, GOtv Ch. 63).
Midweek Highlights
Premier League
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Brighton vs Chelsea – Tue, 8:00 PM
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Bournemouth vs Leeds United – Wed, 8:00 PM
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Burnley vs Manchester City – Wed, 8:00 PM
La Liga
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Real Madrid vs Alaves – Tue, 8:30 PM
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Elche vs Atletico Madrid – Wed, 6:00 PM
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Barcelona vs Celta Vigo – Wed, 8:30 PM
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Real Oviedo vs Villarreal – Thu, 8:30 PM
Ligue 1
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Paris Saint-Germain vs Nantes – Wednesday, 6:00 PM
Catch Every Game
Catch all the action live on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv. Matches are also available via DStv Stream and GOtv Stream. Manage or upgrade your subscription through the MyDStv or MyGOtv apps, visit www.dstv.com or www.gotvafrica.com, or dial *288# to stay connected.
WWE’s biggest annual event returns this weekend as WrestleMania 42 takes over Las Vegas in a blockbuster two-night spectacle, with GOtv subscribers set for every twist, title clash, and surprise moment live on Channel 68.
Broadcast live from Allegiant Stadium on Saturday, April 18, and Sunday, April 19, this year’s edition comes with added intrigue as WWE legend John Cena serves as official host. Following his dramatic heel turn during his farewell run, fans will be watching closely to see whether Cena remains a neutral master of ceremonies or becomes a major factor in the chaos.
Cody Rhodes Faces Randy Orton in Night One Main Event
Night One is headlined by Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes defending against former ally Randy Orton.
Adding to the drama is a major stipulation: if Orton loses, broadcaster Pat McAfee must leave WWE. With pride, titles, and careers in play, the stakes could hardly be higher.
CM Punk vs Reigns Headlines Night Two
The biggest match of the weekend sees World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk defend his title against Roman Reigns in a clash loaded with pride, legacy, and unfinished business.
After Punk’s recent verbal shots at the Anoa’i family dynasty, Reigns enters WrestleMania determined to reclaim his place at the top. It is a meeting of two eras, with championship gold and reputation on the line.
Women’s Division Brings Heavy Firepower
One of the most anticipated contests of the weekend sees Jade Cargill defend the WWE Women’s Championship against Rhea Ripley, a battle between two of the most dominant forces in modern wrestling.
Night One also features Liv Morgan vs Stephanie Vaquer for the Women’s World Championship, while AJ Lee vs Becky Lynch adds star power to an already stacked card.
Other Must-Watch Matches
Fans can also look forward to:
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Brock Lesnar vs Oba Femi in a special attraction clash
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Seth Rollins vs Gunther in what many expect to be a technical classic
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Bron Breakker vs Trick Williams for the United States Championship
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A six-man ladder match for the Intercontinental Championship
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The Bloodline vs Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn
Watch Live on GOtv
WrestleMania 42 airs live on GOtv Channel 68 from 11:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday, with repeat broadcasts at 1:00 pm the following day.
From championship drama to shocking returns and Vegas-sized spectacle, WrestleMania weekend promises two nights of unforgettable entertainment on GOtv.
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