Autosport International, Europe’s largest motorsport show, opened to the public today with some of the industry’s biggest names attending, including Red Bull Racing drivers David Coulthard and Mark Webber as well as Honda Racing F1’s Jenson Button.

Featuring all three Formula One drivers, the Autosport Stage proved a focal point for fans eager to catch a glimpse of their heroes and included appearances from World Rally Champion Marcus Grönholm and DTM racer and McLaren test driver Gary Paffett.

“This is my first big interview of the year and is each year,” said Button on his Autosport Stage appearance. “I like the fact that they open up the interview to the floor too. Fans come up with some great stuff, it’s good fun! I’ve been coming to the show since I was 11 years old as my dad used to have a stand here and although it’s a bit harder now that I’m in F1, I still love looking around.” 

“I made sure I got the chance to walk about the show today,” added Webber. “The Colin McRae tribute was a definite must and it’s great to see all areas of motorsport represented in one place. It’s good to see plenty of people enjoying the industry too. I might be an F1 racing driver but I really enjoy looking at the junior series and how things are developing for them.”  

Young karters were pleasantly surprised when Webber made an unscheduled appearance at the BRDC Stars of Tomorrow 2007 Championship Awards at the Karting Stage, handing out trophies and advice to budding drivers and their families. The younger winners also enjoyed a visit from Roary the Racing Car®’s Big Chris who gave out the MSA Cadet class trophies.

Big Chris made a series of appearances throughout the show, none proving more popular than at the Roary the Racing Car® stand with pre-schoolers attending the area in throngs to meet the cartoon character.

“This is our first year here but the stand has proved really popular,” said Greg Lynn, Executive Producer of the animated show. “From the very start of the project, we wanted to be associated with the racing industry and made sure the cars featured in the cartoon were as authentic looking as possible. That’s why the Autosport International Show is the perfect place for us to exhibit at.”

The Official HKS Drag Series Trophies were also given out today with awards handed out in three classes; Pro, Street and Front-Wheel-Drive at the Santa Pod Raceway stand. Comprising of four rounds based in Santa Pod, the year-old series features Japanese cars and engines.