Indian motorsport has found a new global face. Atiqa Mir, just 11 years old, has finished 2025 as India’s most successful karter on the international stage in her category. Competing against some of the world’s best young racers, most of them boys, Atiqa delivered a season that redefined what Indian drivers can achieve abroad.
Her performance has not only brought trophies but also global attention to India’s grassroots racing ecosystem. At an age when most children are still discovering hobbies, Atiqa has already made history.
Who is Atiqa Mir?
Atiqa Mir is a Mumbai-born karting prodigy and one of the brightest young talents in Indian motorsport. She comes from a racing family and is the daughter of Asif Mir, India’s first national karting champion. Exposed to competitive racing at an early age, Atiqa quickly stood out for her speed, race intelligence, and calm approach under pressure.
In 2025, she became the first Indian driver to receive support from the Formula 1 Academy, placing her on a global development pathway. She currently races in the Mini category, competing internationally against elite young drivers from Europe and beyond.
Atiqa Mir’s Record-Breaking 2025 Season
The 2025 season pushed Atiqa into elite territory. Racing in the highly competitive Mini category, she delivered numbers that few Indian karters have matched overseas.
She secured four pole positions, two final race wins, and six heat victories. Atiqa also climbed the podium six times and clocked eight fastest laps across international events. These results came against a strong, male-dominated grid from top racing nations.
Her consistency stood out as much as her speed. She showed control under pressure and maturity beyond her years.
First Indian Supported by Formula 1 Academy
Atiqa achieved another major milestone in 2025. She became the first Indian driver to receive backing from the Formula 1 Academy. The support placed her among a select group of young female racers being groomed for the highest levels of motorsport.
She also received backing from the Akcel GP Academy, which played a key role in her international campaign. The exposure allowed her to race across different circuits and conditions, accelerating her development.
Atiqa Mir on Her Breakthrough Year
Reflecting on the season, Atiqa described 2025 as a turning point in her journey.
“So much has happened, and I have tasted international success. I have also received great support from my fans here in India and abroad. My motivation is higher than ever tonight, and I can’t wait for the new season to start,” said the Mumbai-born driver.
Father Asif Mir on Her Growth as a Driver
Atiqa’s father, Asif Mir, India’s first national karting champion, closely tracked her progress throughout the year.
“Atiqa has worked tirelessly throughout the year to improve and has shown winning results. She has driven all her races internationally against the world’s best drivers and has done well,” he said.
“It is encouraging and gives us a lot to look forward to for the future. There are a lot of exciting developments for 2026, and we will continue her rigorous development to reach our ultimate goal: Formula 1,” summed up Mir.
Can Atiqa Mir Reach Formula 1?
Breaking into Formula 1 remains Atiqa’s long-term dream. No female driver has competed in F1 for decades. The coming season will be crucial as her team decides whether she stays in the Mini category or moves up the racing ladder.
With early success, international backing, and steady progress, Atiqa Mir is now firmly on the global motorsport map.