Home

Open Book: Jean Todt

The former FIA president shares the literary influences that have shaped his life.

Posted on
Jean Todt is a French motor racing executive and former rally co-driver. Throughout his career, he has been the director of Peugeot Talbot Sport, Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 team principal, and chief executive officer of Ferrari from 2004 to 2008. From 2009 to 2021 he served as the ninth president of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). Since 2015, Todt has been the United Nations' Special Envoy for Road Safety. Courtesy of Jean Todt.

Jean Todt’s career has been defined by leadership, precision, and an unwavering commitment to safety and excellence. From his pioneering work in motorsport to his global advocacy for road safety, his vision has been shaped by the stories he’s read along the way. Here, he shares the books that have influenced him, his perspectives and continue to guide his journey.

The book that changed how I see the world is: Voice of Hope: Conversations with Alan Clements by Aung San Suu Kyi.

"Looking at her journey, you learn what resilience and compassion are."

The book I’ve read more than once (or twice) is: A Man of Peace in a World of War by Stanley Meisler

"This book is to be re-read at this time when the world is struggling with peace. This biography of Kofi Annan, the 7th Secretary-General of the United Nations, is a source of inspiration. He was the one who pushed road safety onto the UN's political agenda."

The book I gift all my friends is: The Silent Pandemic on the Road by Jean Todt.

"A book we collaborated on with Assouline, shedding light on the global road safety crisis."

The book that reminds me of my childhood: Le Petit Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

The book that inspired my career is: Jim Clark at the Wheel: The World Motor Racing Champion’s Own Story (1966) by Jim Clark

The book that taught me everything about cars is: Piloti… che gente! by Enzo Ferrari

The book that’s always on my nightstand is: Formula 1 : The Impossible Collection, Second Edition by Brad Spurgeon, Jean Todt and Stefano Domenicali

In honor of World Book Day, discover Culture Lounge’s “Open Book” series, featuring insights from tastemakers and industry leaders who reveal how literature impacts our lives, shapes our communication, and deepens our understanding of the world around us.

Jean's Picks
Best Seller
The Ultimate Collection Formula 1: The Impossible Collection (2nd Edition)
$1,400 USD
The Ultimate Collection Rare Cars: The World's Most Exclusive Rides
$2,500 USD

More from Culture Lounge

World of Assouline

Open Book: Alex Assouline

The Assouline president on the books that shaped his path—from personal growth to timeless style, to the one he returns to again and again.

World of Assouline

Open Book: Silvia Tcherassi

From Chanel's influence to her own distinctive style, the Colombian fashion designer shares the literary works that fuel her creative journey and remain closest to her heart.

World of Assouline

Open Book: Ben Clymer

The bibliophile behind Hodinkee cherishes books that stand the test of time.