Belgian journalist Virginie Philipott has formally announced her candidacy for the FIA presidency, positioning her bid as a response to decades of male-dominated leadership in global motorsport governance.
Her message
“The importance of female leadership cannot be overstated. For decades, motorsport has been shaped almost exclusively by men,” she said, framing her run as a chance to modernize and broaden the sport’s direction.
Why it matters
Philipott’s candidacy arrives at a moment when questions of inclusion, transparency and long-term sustainability are increasingly central to the motorsport agenda. With international series evolving rapidly on and off the track, the next FIA leadership team will be expected to navigate complex regulatory, commercial and technological challenges.
Focus areas signaled
- Diversity and representation in motorsport structures and pathways
- Transparency in governance and rule-making
- Safety, sustainability and fan-focused growth
What’s next
The election process will gather momentum in the coming months as candidates make their case to member clubs and national sporting authorities. Philipott’s bid underscores a broader debate about the future direction of the FIA and the makeup of the leadership guiding it.
