Laura Villars, a Swiss racing driver, has made history by becoming the first woman to run for the position of FIA President.
PARIS, September 25, 2025 — Laura Villars, a Swiss racing driver, has officially announced her candidacy for the Presidency of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). It marks a historic milestone, as she is the first woman in FIA history to seek this position, representing a significant moment for both motorsport and sports governance.
“The FIA must reaffirm its role as the federation of clubs and license holders. My goal is to establish a governance that is more democratic, transparent, responsible, and inclusive of women and new generations. I firmly believe that motorsport requires diversity and innovation to continue inspiring younger generations around the world,” said Laura Villars.
An International Racing Career
- 58 race starts across various series, including the Ultimate Cup Series F3R, F4 UAE, Ferrari Challenge Europe, and Ligier European Series.
- Achieved 5th overall in her first full season in the Ultimate Cup Series F3R (2023).
- Recent entries include: F4 UAE in Abu Dhabi (2023), F4 Saudi Arabia (2024), and Ferrari Challenge Europe Trofeo Pirelli AM (296 Challenge – Ladies Trophy, 2024).
- Currently competing in the Ligier European Series JS P4 with Team Virage (2025).
A Pivotal Election
The FIA presidential election is scheduled for December 12, 2025, during the General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem is running for a second term, while former FIA steward Tim Mayer has also announced his candidacy.
Laura Villars’ Clear and Innovative Agenda:
- Empower clubs through regular consultations and participatory governance.
- Strengthen transparency in financial matters and decision-making processes.
- Introduce an “FIA Eco-Performance” label to recognize leadership in sustainability.
- Enhance the Women in Motorsport program (including initiatives like Girls on Track and mentoring) and establish a FIA Young Leaders Academy.
- Position the FIA as a global benchmark for sustainable mobility and road safety.
Born in Switzerland, Laura Villars is a racing driver and entrepreneur who advocates for women and youth in motorsport, representing a new generation of independent and responsible leadership.
Just days after officially announcing her candidacy for the FIA Presidency, Swiss racing driver and entrepreneur Laura Villars has launched the next crucial phase of her campaign. She is reaching out to all FIA member clubs worldwide by sending each president a personalized email, which includes her Profession of Faith.
In her message, Laura Villars reaffirmed her commitment to the FIA, stating:
“The FIA is our common home. I have been involved in it my entire life, both as a racing driver and as a member of mobility clubs. Today, I want to dedicate this experience to a collective project built with and for the clubs.”
FIA
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for world motorsport and a global federation of motoring organizations focused on advocating for road safety, innovation, and the interests of motorists. Founded in 1904, the FIA serves as the regulatory and administrative authority for major international motorsports, such as Formula One, and represents millions of road users through its member clubs worldwide.
Key Aspects of the FIA
- World Motorsport Governing Body:
The FIA establishes and enforces regulations for international motorsport championships, ensuring that they are safe and fair.
- Mobility Advocacy:
The organization represents the interests of motoring organizations, the automotive industry, and users in areas such as road safety, traffic circulation, and sustainability.
- Global Federation:
The FIA unites hundreds of national motoring and sporting organizations from countries across five continents, acting as their global voice.
- History and Purpose:
Initially established in 1904 as the Association Internationale des Automobile Clubs Reconnus (AIACR), the FIA’s initial goal was to promote car manufacturers and create a framework for international motor racing.
- Headquarters:
The FIA is headquartered in Paris, France, with offices in other major cities.
- Member Organizations:
The FIA’s member clubs collectively represent millions of motorists and their families.
Sources: Laura Villars; FIA
CitiTimes 