Laura Villars: Pioneering the Future of Motorsports as First Female FIA Presidential Candidate
Laura Villars, a prominent Swiss racing driver, has made headlines by becoming the first woman to announce her candidacy for the presidency of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). At just 28 years old, she is poised to make a significant impact in the world of motorsports. Her announcement, which took place on September 18, 2025, marks a historic milestone for both women in sports and motorsport governance overall. Villars's vision for the FIA is clear: she aims to create a governance structure that is democratic, transparent, and accessible, especially to women and younger generations.
In her candidacy speech, Villars made a compelling case for the necessity of diversity and innovation in motorsport. "The FIA must once again be the federation of clubs and license holders," she stated. Villars’s determination implies a push towards a more inclusive environment within a traditionally male-dominated industry. With an impressive racing background, boasting 58 race starts across various series, including the Ultimate Cup Series F3R and the Ferrari Challenge Europe, her experience on the track is extensive. She had a solid fifth-place finish in her first full season in the Ultimate Cup Series F3R and is actively participating in the Ligier European Series with Team Virage in 2025.
The upcoming election is set for December 12, 2025, during the FIA General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Villars is competing against the current FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who is seeking a second term, as well as former FIA steward Tim Mayer. This election is a critical moment for the FIA, particularly with regard to the direction motorsports will take in the coming years.
One key aspect of Villars's agenda is to empower clubs. She plans to implement regular consultations with stakeholders, enhancing participatory governance. Transparency in finance and decision-making is another priority, ensuring that the FIA is accountable to its members. Additionally, Villars aims to introduce a new "FIA Eco-Performance" label that would recognize organizations excelling in sustainability. Her commitment to women in motorsport is evident in her intention to enhance programs like "Girls on Track" and establish a new FIA Young Leaders Academy.
Born on August 29, 1997, Laura Villars embodies the modern, independent, and responsible leadership that the FIA seeks. She has become a role model for women and youth interested in motorsports, advocating for greater representation within an industry that has seen limited female involvement at the highest levels.
As the racing community and sports enthusiasts look toward the future, Laura Villars's candidacy represents a significant shift. The FIA casting a wider net for leadership could enrich the sport’s appeal to a broader audience while simultaneously harnessing the energy of new talents.
In conclusion, Laura Villars's historic candidacy for the FIA presidency is not only a personal achievement but a turning point for the motorsport landscape. Her innovative and inclusive agenda promises to reshape the FIA and inspire the next generation of racers. It serves as a powerful reminder that motorsport, like any other domain, is enriched by diverse voices and experiences. The world will be watching as she navigates this pivotal journey toward becoming a trailblazer in motorsport governance.