By Phil Giles
January 13 2005

The unofficial start to the 2005 Grand Prix season got underway today as the Autosport Show 2005 opened its doors to the motorsport industry.

As luck had it, I had a couple of days annual leave to take so as Jordan Fans Online is a well respected F1 website, I applied for media accreditation and was accepted.  My mission was to seek out all things Jordan at the show.  Unfortunately, Jordan didn't show so I looked for some F1 stuff instead.

So what can you expect?  Well, the show runs for four days from today (13th Jan) through until Sunday (16th) and it encompasses every kind of Motorsport imaginable.   Formula One is well represented at the show.  A number of drivers including David Coulthard and Mark Webber will be present over the weekend, both no doubt on promotional duty for their new F1 teams.  But there were also stars from the world of GP2 and the A1 Grand Prix series which is due to start in September.

Christian Horner of Arden appeared on the Autosport central stage, and introduced his new seasons drivers.  There were guest appearances from John Surtees, Sheik Mohammed Al Khatoum (recently linked with Jordan) and Jodie Kidd among others and all this on the first day.

The Motorsport Arena show was well presented with racers from all types of disciplines.  The A1 Grand Prix car made it's public debut and there was a Lamborghini parade, headed by their latest Tractor.  Yes you read it right, Tractor!

F1 was it must be said fairly neglected, however as these were trade days then there is more emphasis on the Business side of the sport.  When the show opens to the public on Saturday and Sunday then you can expect far more in the way of F1 to be on display.  I must say that I was hoping to see more in the way of F1 and was slightly disappointed but the Public days will be very different.

It's amazing how much they fit in.  It has become an absolute must in my calendar to start the year off right.  I'll be back at the show tomorrow and Saturday so if you spot me, tap me on the shoulder and say hi.

See you there.