African lottery regulators attend 106th American Grand Prix
The visit formed part of broader efforts by African lottery regulators to strengthen international partnerships and deepen cooperation across the regulated wagering ecosystem.
Côte d’Ivoire.- Senior figures from Africa’s lottery and gaming regulatory space were among the high-profile international guests at the 106th edition of the American Grand Prix, held on Sunday, January 25, 2026, underscoring the growing engagement between African lottery institutions and major global sporting events.
Leading the African delegation was Mr Dramane Coulibaly, Director General of LONACI, and President of the Association of African Lotteries (ALA). He attended alongside Dr Toussaint Manga, Director General of LONASE, and Mrs Mariame, Director General of SONAL SA, each accompanied by officials from their respective organisations.
The visit formed part of broader efforts by African lottery regulators to strengthen international partnerships, observe global best practices and deepen cooperation across the lottery, gaming and regulated wagering ecosystem. Events of this scale provide a strategic platform for dialogue, institutional networking and knowledge exchange, particularly in areas such as governance, innovation and sustainable sector growth.
The American Grand Prix, widely regarded as the world cup of harness racing, served as an ideal setting for such engagement, bringing together sporting excellence and key institutional stakeholders from different regions of the world. The presence of African regulators highlighted the continent’s increasing visibility and influence within the global lottery and gaming landscape.
Beyond its institutional significance, the 2026 edition of the Grand Prix delivered a sporting spectacle. Run over a demanding 2,700-metre distance, the race featured 18 elite trotting horses competing at the highest level of international harness racing. Victory was claimed by Hokkaido Jiel, wearing saddle number 13, and driven by renowned French driver Franck Nivard. The pair demonstrated exceptional pace, endurance and race intelligence to outclass a competitive field and secure the prestigious title.
As the event concluded, the 106th American Grand Prix once again reaffirmed its dual identity, not only as a premier sporting contest but also as a valuable meeting point for influential institutions shaping the future of regulated racing and lottery operations worldwide.
