Autosport International introduction

This week the 29th edition of Autosport International takes place at the NEC in Birmingham. Since its 1991 inception, the show has gathered the entire spectrum of motorsport – from karts and oval racing through to rallying and, of course, Formula 1 – all in one place. On Saturday, the World Rally Championship will launch in front of the public for the first time at the show. Mclaren will present its allnew F1 driver line-up, Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz Jr. Gamers can fight for a share of $100,000, plus W Series enters the limelight as it seeks to break down the barriers to greater female participation in motorsport. Alan Hyde, guru of the British Touring Car paddock, who will take the reins as host of the Autosport Stage this year, says: “I know the calibre of guests Autosport International attracts from around the world, so I know I’m in for an entertaining and star-studded ride.” The four-day extravaganza opens its doors today (Thursday). The first two days are dedicated to the motorsport industry, before the public is welcomed on Saturday and Sunday. Here’s a taste of what’s to come from Europe’s biggest motorsport show.