Aspiring Australian racing driver Christian Mansell has shared his personal journey with mental health and a recent diagnosis of ADHD that led him to withdraw from the 2025 Formula 2 Championship. Mansell was set to compete with Rodin but stepped away just weeks before the season began, citing personal challenges that had significantly impacted his well-being.
Mansell gained recognition during his 2024 season in Formula 3, where he emerged as a leading competitor. His engaging social media presence created a strong following among fans. The young driver had completed pre-season preparations with Rodin and was expected to debut in Melbourne as part of the 2025 championship. However, his unexpected withdrawal took many by surprise.
Reflecting on his struggles, Mansell expressed a sense of relief in sharing his experiences. He revealed in an Instagram post, “2025, what an absolute write-off of a year. In all seriousness, this year completely broke me. I’ve had to overcome adversities that I never wanted or asked for.” The diagnosis of ADHD came after years of feeling out of sync with himself, a condition he discovered had affected him since childhood.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that can lead to symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Once diagnosed, many individuals find effective management through therapy and medication. Mansell noted, “I’ve always felt off, different, too loud, too quiet, zoning out of conversations, unexplainable and unpredictable emotions. It honestly explains everything for me.”
Mansell’s mental health challenges intensified as he tried to cope on his own. He admitted, “As a man, I was silly and tried to bottle it up (spoiler alert, it doesn’t work).” This realization marked a turning point for him, prompting him to seek help and understanding.
Despite stepping away from competitive racing, Mansell found opportunities to stay connected to the sport. He drove a formula car at Pembrey Circuit in Wales and is preparing to return to racing. Soon to turn 21, he is shifting gears to compete in GT racing with Team Motopark. His first event will be the 6 Hours of Abu Dhabi, scheduled for next week.
Looking ahead, Mansell shared an optimistic outlook for the coming year. “What you can take from this is 2026 is a year for me that signifies change,” he wrote. He emphasized the importance of transforming his mindset and improving his relationship with mental health. “I have a completely different view on life and why it’s so worth living for,” he added.
Mansell expressed gratitude towards his support system, thanking his family and friends for standing by him during challenging times. As he prepares to embrace a new chapter in his racing career, he remains hopeful for the future, inviting his followers to join him in celebrating the arrival of 2026.
This candid revelation not only highlights Mansell’s resilience but also underscores the importance of mental health awareness in sports, encouraging others to seek help and support when facing similar challenges.
