FIA Statement

11.10.13

FIA expresses sincere condolences to family of María de Villota

The FIA family today comes together to express its sincere condolences to the family of María de Villota, who passed away this morning in Spain.

María, a former WTCC and Formula One test driver, a leading member of the Women in Motor Sport Commission, an FIA Action for Road Safety Ambassador, and a member of the FIA Drivers’ Commission, will be greatly missed by the FIA community and all who knew her. 

FIA President Jean Todt said: “Today is a tragic day for motor sport. My deepest condolences go to the de Villota family. María was a fantastic driver, a leading light for women in motor sport and a tireless campaigner for road safety.

“Above all she was a friend I deeply admired,” he added. “Through her courage, strength and determination she transformed her personal misfortune on the track into a powerful message for road safety that was heard at race tracks and beyond around the world. María was a beloved member of the FIA family. Our thoughts go to her family today.”