F1 champion Nigel Mansell CBE undergoes a driving review

• 31 times grand-prix winner takes a Mature Driver Review to test his road driving skills in UK

• IAM RoadSmart calls for Government to increase support for older drivers wanting to stay safe behind the wheel

Former Formula One World Champion Nigel Mansell CBE has undertaken an IAM RoadSmart Mature Driver Review, while also backing calls for more support to help older motorists stay safe, confident and independent on the road.

With 31 Grand Prix victories, a Formula One World Championship and CART title to his name, Mansell is no stranger to life behind the wheel. But this month he swapped circuits for Britain's roads, taking IAM RoadSmart's one-hour Mature Driver Review. The 1992 world champion prioritised safety with a smooth drive for his examiner.

Conducted by IAM RoadSmart's Chief Examiner, Richard Gladman, the review is aimed at drivers aged 65 and over. As drivers get older, they tend to adapt their driving habits in response to changes in confidence, health and other factors*. A Mature Driver Review enables them to spend an hour with an instructor who can provide older drivers with independent expert feedback on their driving behaviours and competence, without fear of licence loss. It also helps them adapt to changing road environments, technology and driving conditions.

While Mansell's observation, reactions and vehicle control reflected a lifetime of driving experience, the review also highlighted how Britain's roads continue to evolve. From changing road layouts and smart motorways to icreasing traffic volumes and new vehicle technology, even highly experienced drivers can benefit from a fresh perspective.

The session reinforces the value of regular driving reviews, helping seasoned motorists maintain confidence while identifying areas where habits may need updating.

Nigel Mansell CBE said: "It was a great experience and a real confidence boost. What surprised me most was how much road conditions and driving environments have changed over the years.

"The review showed that no matter how much experience you have, there's always something new to learn. Roads are busier than ever; technology is constantly evolving and it's important to keep your skills up to date. I would encourage any driver to consider having a review as none of us are too old to learn something new."

Richard Gladman, Chief Examiner at IAM RoadSmart, said: "I never thought I'd be conducting a driving review with a Formula 1 World Champion, let alone offering Nigel Mansell tips on his driving! It's fair to say his reactions haven't slowed down much since his racing days, but I think it is always beneficial to take a fresh look at your driving given how much our roads and vehicles are changing. The Mature Driver Review isn't about passing or failing. It's about helping experienced drivers stay safe, confident and independent for longer."

IAM RoadSmart is calling on the Government to strengthen the licence renewal process for drivers over 70, which currently relies on self-declaration of eyesight and medical fitness rather than independent verification. The charity is also calling for greater support to make Mature Driver Reviews more accessible and affordable for older drivers.

Research from IAM RoadSmart** found that almost half (46%) of UK adults have had a difficult conversation with an older relative about their driving, while 85% support compulsory eyesight tests for drivers aged 70 and over when renewing their licence.

With the number of people aged 75 and over expected to nearly double to almost 10 million by 2039***, IAM RoadSmart says action is needed now to help balance road safety with the independence that driving provides, particularly in areas where public transport options are limited.

The Mature Driver Review is a relaxed, one-hour session conducted in the driver's own vehicle and on familiar roads. There is no pass or fail. Drivers receive expert feedback, practical advice and a digital certificate to help them continue driving safely and confidently.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

*https://www.racfoundation.org/media-centre/supporting-safe-driving-into-old-age
** https://www.mynewsdesk.com/uk/iam-roadsmarts-media-centre/pressreleases/nearly-half-of-brits-have-had-a-difficult-conversation-with-an-older-relative-over-their-driving-as-a-third-admit-to-feeling-unsafe-in-the-car-with-them-3416828
*** https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/79264/html/

About the Mature Driver Review from IAM RoadSmart

• A one-hour drive with an IAM RoadSmart expert, in the driver's own vehicle

• A supportive assessment - no test, no pass or fail

• Covers observation, hazard perception, positioning, manoeuvring and more

• Includes feedback, an assessment grade and a digital certificate

• Book online to go out with an expert Approved Driving Instructor (ADI)

About IAM RoadSmart IAM RoadSmart is the UK's leading road safety charity, providing advanced driver and rider training. Formed in 1956, it has around 70,000 members and 5,000 volunteers who support its road safety campaigns, with more than 7,000 drivers and riders actively engaged in its courses at any one time.