LAURA VILLARS ENTERS RACE TO BECOME FIA PRESIDENT
Laura Villars, a Swiss racing driver and entrepreneur, has built a strong career across European motorsport. She’s competed in series such as Formula 4 UAE, Formula 4 Saudi Arabia, the Ultimate Cup Series F3R, where she finished fifth overall in 2023, and the Ferrari Challenge Europe, winning the Ladies Trophy in 2024. Since the beginning of 2025, she has raced in the Ligier European Series with Team Virage.
In September 2025, Villars made history as the first woman to run for FIA President. The election, set for 12 December in Tashkent, will see her face current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and former FIA member Tim Mayer, previously fired by Ben Sulayem himself.
We have the pleasure to have interviewed Laura, as she shares what drives her, and her vision for the future of the FIA.
What inspired you to run for FIA President, and why now?
“I’ve been in motorsport as a driver and also as an entrepreneur, so I’ve seen both the passion on track and the complexity behind the scenes. What pushed me to run now is simple: I feel the FIA needs new energy, fresh ideas, and leadership that really listens to its clubs. Motorsport is evolving, and the FIA has to evolve with it. This is a crucial moment for the future of our sport and mobility.”
What would be your first priority if elected?
“My first move would be to reconnect with the clubs. They are the backbone of the FIA, and they should feel fully involved in shaping decisions. I want to open more dialogue, more transparency, so that every club feels this is truly their federation.”
As the first woman candidate, what does this mean to you, and to motorsport?
“Of course, it’s historic, and I’m incredibly proud. But I don’t want to be defined only by being the first woman. For me, this moment shows that motorsport can finally open up to different perspectives and leadership styles. It’s a signal that change is possible. Personally, it’s an honor, but above all, I want to prove that I’m here to lead with a strong team behind me, not just be “the first woman”.
How do you plan to make the FIA more transparent and democratic?
“For me, transparency means being accountable. I would make finances clearer, share decisions openly, and make sure big choices are discussed with the clubs beforehand. It’s about building trust. Democracy at the FIA has to be lived every day, not just spoken about in speeches.”
How would you tackle sustainability and engage younger audiences?
“We can’t just talk about sustainability, we need to set real standards. I want to launch an FIA Eco-Performance Label to recognize those leading the way.”
“As for younger people, we have to inspire them. That means expanding programs like Girls on Track, creating a Young Leaders Academy, and using digital tools and platforms to bring motorsport closer to their world are key steps.”
What legacy would you like to leave as president?
“I’d like people to say: under her leadership, the FIA became more open, more modern, and more inspiring. That we gave new chances to young talents, to women, and that we made motorsport not only about speed, but about responsibility, innovation, and unity.”
Laura Villars’ candidacy has already sparked conversations about the future of the FIA and the role of women in motorsport leadership. Whether she wins or not, her campaign signals a desire for change, transparency, and a more inclusive approach to governing one of the most powerful organisations in global sport.
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