If you thought motorsport was just a big-boys’ club, then meet Atiqa Mir, India’s 10-year-old karting sensation, who is rewriting the rules of racing. Hailing from Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, and now racing out of Dubai, Atiqa is not just another young talent; she’s a trailblazer making history on global circuits with a style and grit that demand attention.
Atiqa Mir’s Record-Breaking Journey
At the tender age of 10, Atiqa Mir is already breaking records and stereotypes that once seemed impossible to touch. Inspired by her father, Asif Nazir Mir, India’s first national karting champion, Atiqa’s journey started like a dream turned real. Unlike many kids who play with dolls, Atiqa lined up miniature race cars, obsessed with speed and the thrill of the track. That early spark has ignited into blazing success.
Formula 1 Academy’s “Discover Your Drive”
The numbers tell an incredible story. Atiqa Mir became the first Indian and Asian female racer to be selected for the Formula 1 Academy’s “Discover Your Drive” development programme, a prestigious initiative aimed at nurturing young female motorsport talent worldwide. This is huge because, in motorsport, opportunities for girls are rare, and Atiqa is already standing tall among the best in her age group.
Karting Career
Atiqa Mir began competitive karting in the UAE at just six years old, and her impressive resume is growing fast. In early 2025, Atiqa secured a historic pole position and finished third in the Formula 1 Academy-backed COTFA UAE karting series, making her the first Indian and youngest female to reach such heights. She also won a race at the renowned Rotax Max Challenge International Trophy in Le Mans, France, a milestone not just for her but for Indian motorsports.
Facing Bullies Like A Pro
What makes Atiqa Mir’s journey even more inspiring is the resilience behind those podium finishes. Being one of the few girls on a male-dominated karting grid hasn’t been smooth sailing. She’s faced bullying and tough racing battles against older boys who often push harder, but Atiqa’s quick learning and fierce determination have made her a force to reckon with. As her coach says, it’s not about gender, it’s about speed, skill, and heart, and Atiqa has it all.
Her father and mentor, Asif Mir, reflects on those challenges candidly: “It’s an ego issue sometimes, but Atiqa is simply one of the fastest racers in her age group, period.” His support has been crucial, helping her navigate a competitive world while keeping her grounded.
At just 10, Atiqa Mir isn’t only competing, she’s making history and inspiring a new generation of Indian racers, especially girls who dream big. With Formula 1 backing her talent and opportunities opening globally, Atiqa’s future looks like a fast lap towards racing glory.
Also read: 10-Year-Old Atiqa Mir In F1 Academy Takes Historic Pole And Podium
