Race driver Villars becomes first female candidate for FIA presidency

F1

28-year-old Swiss racer intends to run against Ben Sulayem and Mayer

Laura Villars

Swiss racing driver Laura Villars has announced her candidacy for the presidency of the FIA, becoming the first woman to seek the top position in motor sport’s ruling body.

Villars, who is currently competing in the Ligier European Series JS P4 with Team Virage, said her ambition is to create “a governance that is more democratic, more transparent, more responsible, and open to women and new generations.”

“The FIA must once again be the federation of clubs and license holders,” the 28-year-old said.

“I strongly believe that motor sport needs diversity and innovation to keep inspiring younger generations worldwide.”

Never before has a female candidate run for presidency in the FIA’s 119-year history.

The FIA presidential election will take place on 12 December during the General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem is seeking a second term, while former FIA steward Tim Mayer has also declared his candidacy.

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Villars competed in F4 Saudi Arabia

Laura Villars

Villars has outlined a platform aimed at modernising the FIA, including empowering clubs through participatory governance.

To be eligible as a candidate for FIA president, an individual must be nominated by at least five national motor sport authorities affiliated with the FIA.

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Candidates are also required to present a detailed programme outlining their vision for the federation, which is then reviewed ahead of the vote at the FIA General Assembly.

It is unclear whether Villars has met all requirements to run for president.

Villars has 58 race starts across the Ultimate Cup Series F3R, F4 UAE, Ferrari Challenge Europe, and the Ligier European Series.

She finished fifth overall in her first full season in Ultimate Cup Series F3R in 2023, and has recently competed in F4 UAE (Abu Dhabi 2023), F4 Saudi Arabia (2024), and the Ferrari Challenge Europe Trofeo Pirelli AM (296 Challenge – Ladies Trophy) in 2024.

Villars’ agenda

  • Empower clubs through regular consultations and participatory governance
  • Strengthen transparency in finance and decision-making
  • Introduce an ‘FIA Eco-Performance’ label recognising sustainability leadership
  • Enhance the Women in Motorsport programme (Girls on Track, mentoring) and establish an FIA Young Leaders Academy
  • Position the FIA as a global benchmark in sustainable mobility and road safety

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