Celebrating Neurodivergent Brains in Racing
This week (March 17-23) is dedicated to recognising and appreciating the strengths and traits that come with being neurodivergent—whether that means living with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, or other cognitive differences. It is a time to celebrate the diversity of thought, creativity, and resilience that neurodivergent individuals bring to every field, including motorsport.
Changing the Narrative
Neurodiversity Celebration Week was founded in 2018 by Siena Castellon, who recognised the need to shift the focus from the challenges neurodivergent individuals face to a more balanced perspective—one that also highlights their talents and strengths. As she explains on the official Neurodiversity Week website:
"I wanted to change the narrative and create a balanced view which focuses equally on our talents and strengths."
The initiative has grown into a global movement, working with schools, universities, and workplaces to promote understanding, acceptance, and better support systems. However, neurodiversity awareness extends beyond education and employment—it is just as vital in hobbies, communities, and competitive spaces like motorsport.
The Racing World and Neurodivergence
Motorsport is a realm where speed and hyperfocus are key—and these are traits that many neurodivergent individuals naturally excel in. as I explored here. However, accessibility and inclusivity within the sport still require improvement.
For example, sensory sensitivities can make attending live racing events overwhelming, and traditional workplace structures in the motorsport industry may not always accommodate neurodivergent professionals. Yet, progress is being made, and awareness continues to grow, making the racing world a more inclusive space for all. (You can find a list of how to make events more suited to neurodiverse brains here.)
A Personal Reflection: No One Right Way to Be a Supporter
While Neurodiversity Week is a time to reflect on and celebrate our unique strengths, it is also an opportunity to think about how we treat ourselves in regards to our differences. Many neurodivergent individuals struggle with self-doubt, especially when their experiences don’t seem to align with those of others.
I have often questioned whether I am ‘good enough’ to call myself a real racing fan. My brain sometimes struggles to retain certain race details that others seem to recall effortlessly. Yet, at the same time, I find myself fixated on moments that others may overlook—details that stay with me forever. I once shared these concerns with a professional, explaining how it sometimes made me feel like an imposter among other supporters.
They offered me a perspective that I now want to share with you:
"There is no one right way to enjoy things. Your brain simply works differently, and that’s completely okay."
Hearing this was liberating. Yes, I still sometimes wish my brain worked differently. Yes, I still occasionally feel embarrassed when I ask someone to clarify when they are talking about a moment from a race that I watched but can’t recall. But I remind myself that this does not make me less of a fan. Motorsport, like life, is not about conforming to a single experience—it’s about embracing our unique perspectives and strengths.
Celebrating Differences on and off the Track
As we celebrate Neurodiversity Celebration Week, let’s remember that diversity—in all its forms—is what makes life (and racing) exciting. Just as every car is uniquely designed and every track presents different challenges, every individual brings something special to the table. Whether you are a driver, an engineer, a writer, a fan, or simply someone who loves the sport, let’s take this moment to appreciate the incredible contributions of every unique individual.
Rather than trying to fit into a mould of what we believe to be ‘normal,’ let’s celebrate our unique brains and the way they allow us to experience the world—including the thrill of racing—in our own special way.
Happy Neurodiversity Celebration Week!
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