« Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality. » -Warren G. Bennis.

Vision is a herald of change. The most significant changes in the world have been brought about by people who dreamt of a different world and were willing to strive for it. 

Laura Villars fulfills both these criteria. She is a visionary who dreams of a better world—a world without discrimination, a world where women have equal opportunities in the realm of sports.

As a professional racing driver, Laura uses her platform to advocate for this change. She knows too well the obstacles women face in a world dominated by men. But she also believes that change is on its way. It has already entered many other professions, and it is high time it entered the world of motorsports, too.

Driving Diversity in the World of Motorsports

Imagine a young girl who dreams of becoming a racing driver. Discouraged by society and disheartened by their words, she struggles to choose between her dream and societal expectations. It is this young girl for whom Laura wants to be a source of inspiration. She wants her to switch on the T.V. and say, « She did it. I can, too. »

Laura first experienced the thrill of racing at the young age of 15, and although she initially pursued a bachelor’s degree in business management and founded the LSVM group, her passion for racing never waned. 

By 25, she embraced her true calling, shifting gears to a full-time racing career. Laura explains her connection to racing, ‘When I’m in my car at full speed, that’s when I disconnect from the world to push myself physically and mentally. This is when I breathe when I live!’

Reflecting on the first race of the Ferrari Challenge Europe Season at Mugello, Laura Villars noted, « Mugello thrust me into a fiercely competitive environment unexpectedly. Once on track, my instinct kicked in to push beyond my limits. This race sharpened my understanding of competitor strategies, which are lessons I’m eager to apply in future races. As a woman in this sport, my drive is fueled not just by personal ambition but also by a duty to represent and inspire other women in motorsports. »

Her commitment was vividly on display at the Mugello circuit during the Ferrari Challenge Europe. In the first race, she advanced significantly by overtaking four competitors, but an unexpected incident forced her to retire just before the finish line. Despite this setback, Laura received considerable encouragement from spectators and fellow racers, highlighting the respect she has earned for her objectives within the motorsport community. Undeterred, Laura quickly regained her composure for the second race, managing to secure a tenth-place finish in the Pirelli AM category.

She believes: « Motorsport is about skill and passion, regardless of gender. »

Laura’s commitment to this cause is also evident off the track, as she uses her visibility and influence to mentor young girls who dream of racing. 

At a recent event, she shared her journey and discussed the systemic barriers women face in motorsport, inspiring attendees with her resilience and dedication.

She knows what it feels like to be sure of what you want. Only to be told by a bunch of people that you are not supposed to want it.

Fortunately for Laura, her father, a motorsport enthusiast, has always backed her aspirations. Yet, she recognizes that not all young women have such supportive figures in their lives. This awareness fuels her drive to become a source of inspiration and support for others.

In essence, true leadership in the motorsport industry is more than just winning races; it’s about driving change and challenging the status quo. Visionary leaders have the power to transform industries and inspire future generations. Laura embodies this spirit, using her platform to break gender barriers and advocate for diversity in racing. Her journey, marked by resilience and a commitment to equality, highlights how one individual’s determination can pave the way for broader societal change, setting a powerful example for aspiring female racers worldwide.

To stay updated with her exploits, follow Laura Villars on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/laura_villars/