Villars’ FIA bid marks first-ever female run for presidency

Written by Kavi Khandelwal

28-year-old Swiss racing driver Laura Villars has announced her candidacy for the president of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) in a milestone development for motorsport. She would be the first woman in the history of this governing body to contend for the top position.

Credit: Laura Villars

Villars challenges the status quo in a traditionally male-dominated field as she brings in a fresh perspective and transformative agenda to the front line. Her guiding principles, if elected, will rest on modernisation, democracy and inclusivity.

Who is Laura Villars?

Not only is she a professional racing driver, but also a successful entrepreneur. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business management and marketing, and later founded the LSVM group that specialised in real estate and luxury goods.

She embraced a full-time career as a professional racing driver at 25-year-old after finding her passion for the thrill of racing ten years prior.

Credit: Laura Villars

Villars has participated in a variety of racing series such as the F4 UAE Championship, Ferrari Challenge Europe and the Ultimate Cup Series F3R, which highlight her versatility and determination. Currently, she is competing in the Ligier European Series.

This diverse experience in motorsports showcases her understanding of the complexities that reside within it.

Vision for modern FIA

Villars announced: “The FIA must once again be the federation of clubs and license holders.” Continuing, she stated: “My ambition is a governance that is more democratic, more transparent, more responsible and open to women and new generations.”

She strives to foster a more inclusive and forward thinking motorsport community, including an initiative known as ‘FIA Eco-Performance’ that recognises leadership in sustainability.

Villars also aims to enhance the ‘Women in Motorsport’ programme and establish a new ‘FIA Young Leaders Academy’. She believes: “motorsport needs diversity and innovation to keep inspiring younger generations worldwide.” 

Credit: Laura Villars

As a candidate who understands the sport as a driver and in the boardroom, Villars could bridge the gap between competitors and the governing body. Her leadership could be key in ensuring the long-term relevance and appeal of motorsport in an increasingly competitive entertainment aspect.

The FIA has set its presidential elections in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on 12th December 2025. Villars's candidacy represents potentially a turning point for modern motorsport, with her leadership based on inclusivity while honoring tradition.