Laura Villars has risen as one of the most intriguing figures in world motorsport after confirming her candidacy for the FIA presidency at just 28 years old.
The Swiss-Italian driver and entrepreneur aims to unseat incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem and challenge American candidate Tim Mayer in the December 2025 elections.
Villars has presented herself as a reformer, promising greater transparency in governance and stronger pathways for women and young people into motorsport leadership.
Speaking to Bild, she said: “I think now is the right time to not be shy as a woman and to overcome barriers.
"This is about building a democratic and transparent FIA that works for everyone, not just a small circle.”
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Her proposals include creating an FIA Young Leaders Academy to mentor the next generation of motorsport administrators.
She has also called for a more transparent financial framework within the federation to ensure accountability and rebuild trust after recent controversies.
Some critics have questioned whether her bid is more symbolic than serious, but Villars has responded strongly.
“Do these people also have these doubts about my competitors?
"No - why should it impact my bid?
"I am who I am.
"And I’m competing with a strong programme - that’s what should count,” she told GrandPrix.com.
Villars grew up in Switzerland and began her career in karting before moving into GT racing.
In recent years, she has also worked in motorsport consultancy, advising teams on sponsorship and talent development.
Those close to her say she combines on-track experience with an understanding of the commercial pressures that shape modern racing.
A new direction for motorsport?
Her candidacy presents a stark contrast to her rivals.
Ben Sulayem, 63, seeks re-election after a turbulent first term marked by disputes with Formula 1 stakeholders.
Mayer, 57, is a veteran of US motorsport and has previously served as chairman of stewards in Formula 1.
Villars, at less than half their age, positions herself as the candidate of generational change.
What does the election mean?
The FIA presidency is one of the most powerful positions in world sport, overseeing Formula 1, the World Rally Championship, and numerous other international categories.
The president is elected for a four-year term by 245 member clubs across more than 140 countries.
To qualify, Villars must present a complete leadership team, including vice presidents and deputies, and secure official backing from FIA clubs by October 24.
Supporters argue that her candidacy, even if unsuccessful, could leave a lasting legacy by normalising the idea of younger and female leaders in motorsport governance.
As one industry source told Autosport: “Whether she wins or not, Laura has already shifted the conversation.
"The fact that a 28-year-old woman is standing for the FIA presidency would have been unthinkable not long ago.”
The election takes place on December 12 in Uzbekistan.
Between now and then, Villars faces the challenge of convincing national federations worldwide that her vision is credible and achievable.
For a sport often criticised for being insular and resistant to change, her candidacy may prove to be the shake-up many believe is long overdue.
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