Virginie Philippot launches FIA presidential bid

Virginie Philippot has confirmed she will run for the FIA presidency, becoming the second woman to take on Mohammed Ben Sulayem in December's election.

The 33-year-old Belgian-born journalist, entrepreneur and former model revealed her candidacy on Instagram, stating her goal is "not to be the first but to make sure I'm not the last. Motorsport should reflect the real world - bold, diverse and united."

Having competed in junior categories and attended both F1 and WEC events, Philippot is little-known within the sport's establishment but hopes to make history as the FIA's first female president.

She will contest the ballot in Tashkent, Uzbekistan against incumbent Ben Sulayem, fellow challenger Laura Villars, and American ex-steward Tim Mayer.

Philippot is campaigning on themes of transparency, inclusivity and female involvement, supported by her work as founder of the NGO Drive For Hope, which provides education and support for orphans in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

"Let's build an FIA that's truly inclusive for every voice, every story, every passion," she said. Spanish sports daily El Mundo Deportivo highlighted her unconventional background, including pageant appearances at Miss Belgium 2011, Miss International 2017, and a brief entry in the Miss Universe Democratic Republic of Congo 2025 contest.

Although short on FIA experience, Philippot is counting on her outsider profile and advocacy record to convince delegates to back change. "The race for the future starts now," she declared.