Berlin/Pfronstetten-Aichelau, 30th November 2024 - A special honour for an extraordinary story: Roland Arnold, founder and managing director of PARAVAN GmbH, was presented with the 'Story of the Year' award at the prestigious 'Autobild Motorsport Race Night' in the exclusive journalists' club of the Axel Springer building last night. The occasion was the publication of his autobiography, 'Genial Gezündet', in which Arnold tells the moving and inspiring story of his life and pioneering innovations.

I n a festive setting, the event honoured outstanding personalities and motorsport athletes who have distinguished themselves through special achievements. In front of almost 100 invited guests from the world of business, media and motorsport, Roland Arnold was honoured for his impressive entrepreneurial success story and his commitment to motorsport.

While the car industry was hesitating, Roland Arnold hung the steering wheel on the cable instead of the handlebars, thus giving mobility to the severely disabled in particular," said presenter Eve Scheer, paying tribute to his achievement. One of his test laboratories is motor sport. This is where drive-by-wire technology is perfected.

I feel very honoured to have been recognised for my entrepreneurship and commitment to motorsport,' said a visibly moved Arnold. It was a big surprise that I hadn't expected. It was particularly touching that they read out passages from my autobiography about our social commitment. It was a goosebump moment for me. And then there was a video message from Ralf Schumacher - I was really overwhelmed. The applause from the guests underlined the recognition of Arnold's extraordinary achievements.

In addition to Roland Arnold's award, other highlights of the evening included the presentation of awards to Formula E World Champion Pascal Wehrlein and DTM Champion Mirko Bortolotti. Jochen Neerpasch, founder of BMW Motorsport GmbH, was honoured for his life's work. His decades-long promotion of young motorsport talent, including future world stars such as Michael Schumacher, was duly celebrated.
The 'Autobild Motorsport Race Night' is an annual highlight in the motorsport calendar, bringing together motorsport legends, successful drivers and up-and-coming talent in the traditional Axel Springer building.