There is another candidate for the FIA presidency: Virginie Philippot

After Laura Villars and Tim Mayer, there's another candidate for the presidency of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) against current president and re-candidate Mohammed Ben Sulayem. It's Virginie Philippot , who announced this Tuesday that she's in the running.

The Belgian, who is a model, journalist and former contestant on 'Secret Story', announced her candidacy via social media: " I'm running for president of the FIA . Not to be the 'first', but to ensure I'm not the last. I believe motorsport should reflect the real world, bold, diverse and united . As a woman with a global vision and deep roots, I'm here to open doors that have been closed for too long, " she wrote on Instagram.

In the post, Virginie Philippot added: "Let's build an FIA that is truly inclusive of all voices, all stories, all passions. The race for the future starts now."

On LinkedIn, the new candidate for the FIA leadership wrote that, in addition to being "a woman and representing a new generation", she is convinced "in the power of motorsport to inspire and open new horizons".

And he described what he proposes to lead the organization: " My vision is clear : a Federation that is closer to its clubs, fairer to its members, and stronger in its global mission. A Federation that gives real opportunities to young talent, opens doors to Africa and emerging regions, acts decisively for road safety, and embraces the energy of tomorrow with responsibility and ambition. This is not just a campaign; it is a call for renewal . Together, with the audacity to innovate and the strength to unite, we can build an FIA that honors its history while boldly shaping its future."

The FIA elections are scheduled for December 12th in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. It will be decided whether Mohammed Ben Sulayem wins a second term after facing fierce opposition on several fronts over the past four years, or whether there is renewal in the entity that governs motorsports and protects the interests of motorists and the automotive industry.

Who is Virginie Philippot?

Currently 33 years old, Virginie Philippot is Belgian and has made a name for herself in her country's media scene by participating in modeling competitions (Miss Belgium 2012 and Miss International 2017). She competed in 'Secret Story' in France in 2012, in the Belgian 'The Traitors' (2021) and, according to IMDB, is credited in the series 'Hollywood Girls'.

Passionate about cars and motorsports - as can be easily seen on her social media - Virginie Philippot also works in the charity sector, founding the 'Drive for Hope' association, which supports orphans and education in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Africa.