Laura Villars Makes History in Motorsport
Laura Villars, a 28-year-old Swiss race car driver, has officially declared her candidacy for the presidency of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). This announcement marks a significant milestone in the world of motorsport, as she becomes the first woman ever to run for this prestigious position. Villars, who has been making waves in racing, expressed her commitment to a more democratic and transparent leadership within the FIA.
In her statement, Villars emphasized the need for the FIA to reconnect with clubs and license holders, stating that her leadership would prioritize inclusivity for women and the younger generation in motorsport. She believes that for motorsport to thrive, it must embrace diversity and innovation, which she hopes to inspire in future generations across the globe.
A Promising Racing Career
Villars has an impressive racing resume, having participated in various national and international competitions. Her racing career includes:
- - 58 race starts in notable series such as the Ultimate Cup Series F3R, F4 UAE, Ferrari Challenge Europe, and the Ligier European Series.
- - Achieving a 5th place overall ranking in her first full season in the Ultimate Cup Series F3R in 2023.
- - Participation in prestigious races in locations like Abu Dhabi (2023), Saudi Arabia (2024), and competing in the Ferrari Challenge Europe Trofeo Pirelli AM.
- - Currently, she competes in the Ligier European Series JS P4 with Team Virage for the 2025 season.
The Importance of Leadership
The FIA presidential elections are set to take place on
December 12, 2025, during the General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Villars will be up against incumbent president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who seeks re-election, as well as former FIA Steward Tim Mayer, who has also announced his candidacy.
Villars has laid out an innovative and clear agenda for her potential presidency:
- - Empowering clubs through consistent engagement and collaborative leadership.
- - Enhancing transparency in financial management and decision-making processes.
- - Introducing an “FIA Eco-Performance