Close Brothers Motor Finance Takes the Lead as Headline Partner of the European Motor Show 2026
With Formula 1 engines still ringing in our ears from Silverstone and Spa around the corner, the world’s eyes are now turning to Ireland. From 31 January to 1 February 2026, the RDS will host the debut of the European Motor Show—a brand-new event that promises to redefine the automotive landscape across Europe. And Close Brothers Motor Finance Ireland is proud to be in the driving seat as Headline Partner.
For us, this is more than a partnership. It’s a statement of intent.
As the motor industry evolves—electrifies, digitises, and redefines ownership—Close Brothers is investing in the future of mobility, innovation, and customer choice. Our support of the European Motor Show reflects our ambition to lead, not follow. It reinforces our role at the heart of Ireland’s motor ecosystem—helping dealers grow, customers move forward, and the industry adapt to what’s next.
Stephen Bradshaw, as Head of Marketing, Close Brothers Motor Finance, commented:
“The decision to partner with the European Motor Show made sense straight away. It aligns with our long-term strategy of innovation, flexibility, and through our dealer partners and brokers, provide Irish consumers with smarter financial solutions when choosing their next vehicle. We see this event as an opportunity to bring the industry and the public closer together—to learn, to connect, and to inspire.”
Launched officially at Mondello Park, Ireland’s home of motorsport, the event will bring together global brands, next-gen technology, motorsport legends, sustainability pioneers, and automotive visionaries. The show will span every dimension of the motor world—past, present, and future—with immersive zones including:
• F1 & Motorsport Arena
• Tech & Future Mobility Showcase
• Ownership & Close Brothers Motor Finance Hub
• Green Garage Sustainability Zone
• Vintage & Heritage Display
• E-Games, Discovery Zones & Family Experiences
Clare Kilmartin, COO of the European Motor Show, said:
“The European Motor Show is more than an event—it’s a long-term investment in how Europe engages with the future of mobility, motorsport and innovation. 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.”
Confirmed Guests Include:
• Tiff Needell – TV presenter & racing driver
• Tatiana Calderón – TC Prodigy Racing
• Bradley Scanes – Red Bull F1 Performance Coach
• Laura Jordan O’Connell & Kirsty Mansell – Formula Woman
• Euan McTurk – EV specialist
• Beth Georgiou – Electric Racing Academy
• Neil Briscoe – Motoring journalist, The Irish Times
With tickets now on sale, the countdown begins. From industry leaders and motor dealers to families, fans, and future drivers—this is an event built to inspire.
Close Brothers Motor Finance Ireland is proud to lead the charge. See you at the RDS. European Motor Show in partnership with Close Brothers Motor Finance
