On November 23, 2025, history was rewritten on the icy tracks of Cortina d’Ampezzo as Simidele Adeagbo and Kewe King became the first African duo to compete in a 2-woman bobsleigh World Cup race. Team Nigeria shattered a continental barrier, signaling a new era for African winter sports.
This debut is a monumental leap for Nigeria, a nation typically celebrated for its prowess on the track and field, not on the ice. The partnership of Adeagbo, a trailblazer in her own right, and King, a formidable athlete, marks the first time an African team has competed in this specific discipline at the IBSF World Cup level.
Adeagbo is no stranger to making history. As the first African to compete in bobsleigh at the IBSF World Championships and the first to win an international sled race, she has been the spearhead of Nigeria’s winter ambitions. Her transition from solo achievements to leading a 2-woman team demonstrates a commitment to building a sustainable legacy for the sport in Africa.
For Kewe King, stepping onto the World Cup circuit is a validation of intense preparation and resilience. Together, they navigated the treacherous curves of the Cortina track as ambassadors for a continent often overlooked in winter disciplines.
Nigeria makes history at Bobsleigh World Cup as first African nation to compete in 2-woman race
The National Sports Commission has hailed the duo’s performance as a victory for courage and resilience. Their race is being celebrated not merely for the result on the timing sheet, but for the powerful message it sends.
By breaking this barrier, Adeagbo and King have opened a new pathway for aspiring winter athletes across the continent.
