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Laura Villars: A New Era in Motorsports Governance

In a groundbreaking announcement, Laura Villars, a 28-year-old Swiss racing driver, has officially declared her candidacy for the presidency of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), marking a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to aspire to this prominent position in motorsport governance. This landmark decision is not only transformative for Villars but also for the entirety of automotive sports—a field traditionally dominated by men.

“I believe the FIA must return to being a federation of clubs and licensees,” Villars stated in her announcement. “My ambition is to promote governance that is more democratic, transparent, responsible, and inclusive of women and newer generations. I am convinced that motorsport needs diversity and innovation to continue inspiring younger generations around the globe.”

A Pioneer's Journey

Laura Villars is no stranger to the racing circuits. She has participated in over 58 races across various renowned series, including the Ultimate Cup Series F3R, F4 UAE, Ferrari Challenge Europe, and the Ligier European Series. Her competitive spirit and tenacity were on full display as she secured a remarkable 5th position overall during her first complete season in the Ultimate Cup Series F3R in 2023.

Most recently, she took part in the F4 UAE championship in Abu Dhabi (2023) and the F4 Saudi Arabia (2024), as well as competing in the Ferrari Challenge Europe Trofeo Pirelli AM where she earned accolades in the Ladies Trophy in 2024. Currently, she races for Team Virage in the Ligier European Series JS P4.

Crucial Elections Ahead

The upcoming presidential elections of the FIA are set to take place on December 12, 2025, during the General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Villars is stepping into a competitive arena that includes the current FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who seeks a second term, and former FIA commissioner, Tim Mayer, who has also announced his candidacy.

This election is critical as the FIA seeks to define its direction for the future, and Villars has articulated a clear and innovative agenda:
1. Empowering clubs through regular consultations and participatory governance.
2. Enhancing financial transparency and decision-making processes.
3. Introducing the “FIA Eco-Performance” label to recognize leadership in sustainability.
4. Improving initiatives such as “Girls on Track” and establishing a Young Leaders Academy under the FIA umbrella.
5. Positioning the FIA as a global authority on sustainable mobility and road safety.

A Vision of Inclusion and Leadership

Born on August 29, 1997, in Switzerland, Laura Villars is not just a racing driver but also an entrepreneur dedicated to advocating for women's and youth rights in motorsport. She embodies a new generation of leadership that is independent, modern, and conscientious.

As her campaign unfolds, Villars is poised to challenge the status quo and push for pivotal changes that could shape the future of motorsports. The upcoming FIA elections represent not just a personal ambition for Villars, but a significant opportunity to usher in a new era of governance that embraces diversity, innovation, and sustainability.

To learn more about her campaign and vision for the future of motorsport, visit her official website at www.lauravillars.ch.