Ireland is gearing up to host one of the biggest automotive events in Europe as the European Motor Show makes its debut at the RDS in Dublin from 31 January to 1 February 2026. The show was officially launched at Mondello Park, the home of Irish motorsport, and promises to bring together the world's leading motor brands, experts in mobility and innovation, and big names from the world of motorsport. The event aims to celebrate everything from high-performance vehicles and cutting-edge tech to electric mobility and the future of motoring.
The launch event was attended by some of Ireland's most promising female racing drivers, including Laura Jordan O'Connell and Nicole Drought, who will be among the many motorsport figures featured at the show. The event will also include appearances from international names such as TV presenter and racing driver Tiff Needell, electric vehicle expert Euan McTurk, Red Bull F1 performance coach Bradley Scanes, and drivers from the Formula Woman series like Kirsty Mansell and Tatiana Calderón.
Organisers say the European Motor Show will offer something for everyone, including a Motorsport Zone, a Tech and Future Mobility hub, a Sustainability Zone known as the Green Garage, and even family-friendly areas like an e-gaming space and a Family Discovery Area. There will also be a focus on diversity in motoring with features like the Women in Auto section. Vintage car lovers won't be left out either, with a showcase dedicated to classic vehicles.
According to Clare Kilmartin, Chief Operating Officer of the European Motor Show, the event is intended to go beyond a one-time spectacle. She described it as "a long-term investment in how Europe engages with the future of mobility, motorsport and innovation." She also added, "We are committed to fostering meaningful partnerships across industry, technology, society and culture, alongside significant economic and tourism value for the annual host city from day one. We are building a platform with global reach and European identity, where the world's leading motor brands, innovators, and audiences come together in an experience that is impactful and unforgettable.”
Close Brothers Motor Finance has been confirmed as the headline partner for the event. The company's Head of Marketing, Stephen Bradshaw, said the partnership aligns with their focus on providing more flexible financial solutions for consumers choosing their next vehicle. He added, "Our partnership with the European Motor Show will be a unique experience for the Irish motor industry and consumers to enjoy."
Tickets for the show are now on sale. Prices start at €37.50 for adults, with one child allowed free per paying adult. Student and senior tickets are priced at €27, and a family pass - covering two adults and up to three children under 14 - costs €67.50. Children under 14 go free when accompanied by an adult, while teenagers aged 15 to 17 qualify for the student rate.
For more information, including future speaker announcements and event updates, visit www.europeanmotorshow.com.