Welcome to Phinsys Perspectives, where we explore the journeys and insights of extraordinary individuals across a diverse range of fields. In this edition, we speak with Asha Silva, racing driver for Team BRIT and a proud advocate for inclusivity in motorsport. Asha shares her experiences as an autistic driver with ADHD, her thoughts on resilience and focus, and her aspirations both on and off the track.
Q1: You’ve joined Team BRIT as a driver with adult autism and ADHD. How has your journey in motorsports been shaped by these experiences, and what drives you to succeed?
My journey into motorsport has been deeply influenced by my neurodiversity, but in ways I never expected. On the track, the car becomes a sanctuary for me. The moment I put on my helmet, close the door, and connect to the comms, I can switch off the noise of the outside world. For someone whose brain is constantly racing with thoughts, this sense of hyperfocus is incredibly liberating. It’s as though all the mental clutter disappears, and I’m entirely present in the moment.
Day-to-day life can be overwhelming—watching a film might involve also scrolling on my phone because my brain insists on multitasking. But in the car, it’s just me, the controls, and the track. This focus drives my love for the sport, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have discovered this space where I can channel my energy into something positive and productive.
What drives me to succeed is a combination of personal pride and a desire to prove that neurodivergent individuals can excel in demanding, high-pressure environments. Motorsport offers a unique challenge, and meeting that challenge head-on is what motivates me to keep pushing my limits.
Q2: Team BRIT’s mission of inclusivity in motorsports is truly unique. How does this align with your personal values and goals as a driver?
Team BRIT is more than just a racing team—it’s a family. From day one, I’ve felt a sense of belonging that is rare to find in such a competitive environment. The team’s mission of inclusivity resonates deeply with me because it’s about creating opportunities for everyone, regardless of their challenges. As someone with autism and ADHD, I know how difficult it can be to feel understood, let alone supported, in traditional spaces.
One thing I truly appreciate is the openness and honesty within the team. They’ve made it clear that my needs are valid, and we work together to ensure I can perform at my best. For example, I need time to prepare for races, and the team has been incredibly accommodating in giving me that space. It’s this mutual respect and understanding that makes Team BRIT so special.
Inclusivity in motorsport isn’t just about representation—it’s about changing perceptions and breaking down barriers. For me, being part of Team BRIT is an opportunity to show others, especially young people with similar challenges, that there’s a place for them in this sport.
Q3: What have been some unique strengths and challenges of being an autistic driver with ADHD, especially in a sport that demands such focus and discipline?
One of my biggest strengths is hyperfocus. When I’m in the car, I enter a state of flow that allows me to concentrate entirely on the task at hand. This single-minded focus can be a real advantage in a sport that requires split-second decisions. However, staying in control during intense situations—like defending against aggressive drivers—can be a challenge. It’s easy for emotions to take over, so I’ve had to learn how to manage my reactions and stay calm under pressure.
Off the track, maintaining focus can be more difficult. Meetings or routine tasks can sometimes feel draining because my brain craves stimulation. I’ve developed strategies to manage this, like keeping myself lightly occupied with something else while staying engaged enough to follow along. It’s about finding balance and making adjustments to suit different environments.
Q4: Can you describe a particularly memorable or challenging race experience and what you learned from it?
Two races come to mind. The first was a 24-hour endurance race in a Citroën C1 at Silverstone. Driving at night was intimidating at first, but as I got into the rhythm of the track, I found confidence I didn’t know I had. At one point, I overtook a train of cars in the dark, relying on my instincts and track knowledge. That moment reminded me of my capability and what’s possible when I trust myself.
On the flip side, I experienced a challenging moment when our car ran out of fuel during a race due to an issue with the tank. Initially, I blamed myself, thinking I’d pushed the car too hard. Later, we discovered it was a mechanical issue, but the experience taught me to be more attuned to the car’s feedback. It was a tough lesson, but one that’s made me a better driver.
These experiences highlighted the importance of resilience in racing. Whether it’s finding your stride in difficult conditions or learning from mistakes, every challenge adds to your growth as a driver.
Q5: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your career so far that you would carry into any professional or personal setting?
Preparation is key, but so is adaptability. As someone who thrives on structure, I’ve always valued having time to prepare for races or events. However, racing has also taught me the importance of reacting quickly to the unexpected. Whether it’s a sudden change on the track or a last-minute schedule adjustment, being able to trust myself and adapt is crucial.
A conversation with my teammate Paul Fullick reinforced this for me. He reminded me that racing is unpredictable, and success often depends on how you handle surprises. That advice has stayed with me and serves as a reminder to stay confident and flexible in any situation.
Q6: What advice would you give to others aspiring to enter motorsports, especially women and young professionals?
To women, I’d say don’t let the fact that motorsport is male dominated intimidate you. The men in the paddock aren’t monsters—they’re supportive and welcoming, and they respect talent and determination. Take the first step, even if it’s just attending a track day, and be confident in your abilities.
To anyone aspiring to race, be prepared for the hard work behind the scenes. The time you spend racing is just a fraction of the effort required to make it happen. From securing sponsorships to managing logistics, there’s a lot that goes into getting on the grid. Embrace the process and remember that perseverance is key.
Q7: Motorsport clearly runs in your family, with your grandfather being a rally driver. How did you first develop your love for racing, and how has your family influenced your journey?
My love for motorsport began when I was very young. I remember waking up early on Sundays to watch British Touring Cars on Eurosport while everyone else in the house was still asleep. I was completely engrossed—it felt like my own little ritual. That passion grew as I started watching Formula 1 with my dad, particularly during the Damon Hill and Michael Schumacher era. Although Schumacher was the dominant force, it was Hill in the Williams who captured my imagination.
It wasn’t until much later in life that I learned my grandfather had been a rally driver, competing in the East African Safari Rally. That realisation added a whole new layer of meaning to my racing journey. My wife, Anji, also discovered that her grandfather had raced in the same event, which was an incredible coincidence. It feels as though motorsport has always been part of my story, even before I fully understood it.
Q8: What do you enjoy doing outside of racing that helps you recharge and manage the demands of a high-performance lifestyle?
Outside of racing, I’m a self-confessed petrolhead. I love tinkering with cars, and I have a project car—a BMW E46 M3 convertible—that I’ve been restoring in my spare time. It’s a labour of love, and while it’s challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding. I’ve learned a lot through YouTube tutorials and hands-on experience, from replacing suspension to upgrading the car’s in-car entertainment system. Working on the M3 helps me stay connected to my passion for cars in a different way, and it’s a great outlet for creativity and problem-solving.
When I’m not in the garage, I enjoy building Lego sets—mostly cars, of course—and exploring good food. Anji, is an amazing cook, and we often make food a central part of our downtime. She’s also my PR manager, which means she’s as involved in racing as I am. I’m very lucky to have her by my side.
Q9: Looking ahead, what are your personal and professional goals with Team BRIT?
In the short term, I want to continue improving my skills with the BMW 240i and gain a deeper understanding of the car. Looking further ahead, my dream is to race in a GT3 car and eventually compete at Le Mans 24 with Team BRIT. That’s a goal we all share as a team, and it’s exciting to be part of such an ambitious vision.
Outside of racing, I aim to keep growing in my professional career. Like many people, I’ve had to navigate the uncertainties of the corporate world, but I’m focused on making the most of every opportunity and building a stable foundation for the future.
Phinsys is proud to sponsor Asha Silva as part of its partnership with Team BRIT, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and innovation within motorsport. Read more about the sponsorship here.
