European Motor Show 2026 introduces autism inclusion & sensory supports alongside headline motorsport line-up

The European Motor Show 2026 has announced a comprehensive Autism Inclusion & Sensory Support Plan, including a dedicated Sensory Room, quiet spaces and a range of on-site supports, designed to help autistic children, teenagers, adults and their families enjoy the two-day motor festival in a comfortable, inclusive and welcoming environment.

Taking place at the RDS, Dublin, on Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February 2026, the European Motor Show welcomes families from across Ireland. Recognising that large, busy environments can be overwhelming, organisers have put thoughtful measures in place to reduce sensory stress, support regulation and give families greater choice and flexibility when attending the event.

A dedicated Sensory Room for autistic children and teens will be available throughout the event. This calm, predictable space will offer:

The room is designed to support regulation and provide a safe space away from the main event areas, allowing young people to take breaks and return when ready.

In addition, a separate Quiet Room for autistic adults will be available. This space will feature minimal lighting, reduced noise, neutral décor and comfortable seating, giving adults the opportunity to step away from sensory demands and regulate at their own pace.

To further support visitors throughout the venue, satellite “calm pods” – discreet black pop-up tents with beanbags or mats – will be positioned across the show floor. These pods are intended for moments when a young person feels overwhelmed and may find it difficult to move through crowds to the main sensory room.

A range of additional sensory supports will be available on site, including:

All sensory spaces and supports will be clearly marked using straightforward language, visual icons and high-contrast signage to aid way finding.

Staff and volunteers across the event will receive guidance on:

All staff will receive a printed copy of AsIAm’s Language Guide as part of their training.

Each morning of the event will begin with a dedicated Autism-Friendly Hour from 9:00–10:00 AM, featuring reduced noise, adjusted lighting and lower crowd levels to support a calmer start to the day.

A social story will also be uploaded to the European Motor Show website in advance, helping autistic children, teens and adults prepare for their visit and know what to expect on the day.

A trained Kids Coach support team will be present on site throughout the weekend, offering reassurance, guidance and help accessing sensory supports for autistic visitors and their families.

The initiative has been developed in collaboration with David Nugent, founder of The Kids Coach. The Kids Coach is an Ireland-based organisation specialising in inclusive and sensory-aware supports for autistic children, teenagers and adults. Founded by David Nugent, The Kids Coach works across schools, community programmes, public events and family supports to help autistic individuals access movement, leisure and everyday environments in a way that feels safe, respectful and empowering. The organisation is known for its practical, lived-experience-informed approach to inclusion, supporting regulation, predictability and genuine participation rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

David Nugent, said; “Large public events can be overwhelming for autistic people, but with the right planning they can also be joyful, accessible experiences. The European Motor Show is setting a strong example by building inclusion in from the start, not asan add-on. These supports allow autistic children, teens, and adults to engage with the event in a way that feels safe, respectful, and empowering.”

To further support families, the European Motor Show 2026 is also introducing a 25% discounted ticket option for families and attendees who would prefer to arrive one hour earlier than general admission, during the Autism-Friendly Hour. This earlier accessoffers a quieter, less crowded environment, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace before peak times.

To purchase discounted early access tickets, use code EARLYACCESS25 at checkout, or use the following link, where the discount is pre-applied: www.eventbrite.com/e/1372434982979/?discount=EARLYACCESS25

Alongside its accessibility initiatives, the European Motor Show 2026 will feature interactive exhibits, educational talks and family-friendly activities celebrating innovation, technology and the future of mobility. Christian Horner CBE will headline the Main Stage on Saturday, with further speakers and exhibitors to be announced.

Tickets available at www.europeanmotorshow.com

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