Wolff endorsed for NEW role as FIA president… read more
The world of Formula 1 is abuzz with speculation about the future leadership of the FIA, the governing body of international motorsport. Recently, rumors have emerged suggesting that Susie Wolff, the managing director of the F1 Academy, may be considering a run for the presidency of the FIA. While these reports remain unconfirmed, one prominent figure in the F1 community has come out in support of Wolff’s potential candidacy: 1996 Formula 1 world champion Damon Hill.
In a recent social media post, Hill endorsed Wolff for the role of FIA president, stating simply: “She’d be perfect.” This endorsement carries significant weight, given Hill’s stature and experience within the sport. As a former world champion and current Sky Sports F1 pundit, Hill’s opinion is widely respected and sought after.
Wolff, 42, has been a trailblazer for women in motorsport, serving as a development and test driver with Williams from 2012 to 2015. During her time with the team, she became the first woman to participate in a Formula 1 race weekend in 22 years, driving in a practice session at the 2014 British Grand Prix.
Since leaving her role with Williams, Wolff has gone on to become a leading advocate for increased female representation in motorsport. As the managing director of the F1 Academy, an all-female motorsport series, Wolff has worked tirelessly to provide young women with opportunities to develop their skills and pursue careers in the sport.
Wolff’s achievements have not gone unnoticed, and she has earned widespread recognition and respect within the F1 community. However, her success has not been without its challenges. In 2023, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem launched an inquiry into Wolff, citing a potential conflict of interest between her role with the F1 Academy and her husband Toto Wolff’s position as Mercedes team principal.
The investigation sparked widespread criticism, with all 10 Formula 1 teams issuing statements in support of Wolff and condemning the probe as unnecessary and intimidatory. Wolff herself labeled the investigation as “misogynistic” and has since filed a criminal complaint.
Despite these challenges, Wolff remains a highly respected and influential figure within the F1 community. Her potential candidacy for the FIA presidency has sparked widespread interest and debate, with many observers believing that she would be an excellent choice for the role.
As the FIA prepares to elect a new president in the near future, Wolff’s name is likely to be at the forefront of many people’s minds. With her wealth of experience, her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in motorsport, and her proven track record of success, Wolff would undoubtedly be a strong candidate for the role.
Whether or not Wolff ultimately decides to run for the FIA presidency remains to be seen. However, with the endorsement of Damon Hill and the widespread respect and admiration she has earned within the F1 community, Wolff would certainly be a popular choice for the role. As the motorsport world waits with bated breath to see what the future holds for Wolff and the FIA, one thing is clear: Susie Wolff would be an excellent choice for the presidency of the FIA.