Racer and entrepreneur Laura Villars reveals her motivation to run in the 2025 FIA presidency elections. The Swiss announced this week that she is the first woman ever to run for the top position within the governing body, challenging current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem among others. “My priority is women and young racers without money in motorsport,” Villars gives a glimpse of her upcoming manifesto.
Last Thursday, Laura Villars made history by becoming the first woman to run for the FIA presidency. The Swiss is up against current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and former FIA steward Tim Mayer. Villars is also a racer – she competes in the Ligier European Series – and reveals that her own experiences in motorsport also motivate her to run for the presidency.
“I am also a car racer and have experienced a lot during races and in the FIA clubs,” Villars begins in an interview with PlanetF1. “For me, it was very important to show how difficult it can sometimes be for clubs. And I really wanted to become stronger as a woman. I think this is a good time, given everything that is going on in motorsport, and also considering what Susie Wolff has done with the F1 Academy.” Wolff has been leading the F1 Academy, a special stepping stone class for female racers, since 2023.
Women in Motorsport
Meanwhile, Villars felt it was time to participate in the FIA elections. “My priority, also in my future manifesto, will be focused on women in motorsport,” continues the Swiss driver. “And also on all young drivers who don’t have the money to progress. There have been many talented individuals who couldn’t advance in motorsport, especially women. I am a driver and had to overcome several obstacles. Because I am a woman and couldn’t find a sponsor. It was harder, as sponsors know that it’s much more difficult to get into Formula 1.”
“I really want to be an inspiration for the new generation and be very transparent,” concludes Villars. “This is largely my program.” The Swiss driver will announce her complete program, including her co-candidates for positions such as vice-presidents, in the coming days.
