How Did Young Atiqa Become Kashmir's First Formula 1 Racing Prodigy?
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Synopsis
Jammu and Kashmir's young talent, Atiqa Mir, is making headlines as the first female racer from the region to break into the world of Formula 1. After an impressive performance in the European Karting Championship, she continues to inspire with her journey in motorsport. Discover her aspirations and achievements that set her on the path to greatness.
Key Takeaways
- Atiqa Mir is the first Formula 1 racing prodigy from Jammu and Kashmir.
- She finished 4th in the European Karting Championship.
- Atiqa is the first Indian and Asian girl selected for the Formula 1 Academy’s 'Discover Your Drive' program.
- Her father, a former racer, is a key supporter of her career.
- She has numerous achievements in karting competitions across Europe.
Srinagar, Sep 25 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, extended his congratulations to the union territory's inaugural Formula 1 racing talent, Atiqa Mir, who recently achieved an impressive 4th place finish in the European Karting Championship held in Slovakia.
Omar Abdullah expressed his best wishes for Atiqa Mir and conveyed his hope that she would one day clinch the top spot in the F1 racing championship.
“Kudos to young Atiqa. Her innate talent and passion for racing are evident. I am optimistic that the day is approaching when she will become the first Kashmiri to compete at the pinnacle of motorsport - F1. Keep pushing forward, Atiqa, and my best wishes are with you always.”
Atiqa Mir, an 11-year-old karting sensation from Srinagar, is making waves in motorsport as the first Indian and Asian female selected for the Formula 1 Academy's 'Discover Your Drive' initiative.
With support from F1, she recently made headlines by securing the best performance by an Indian and female driver in a European karting championship, finishing fourth in Slovakia.
Motivated by her father, a former Formula Asia driver, she is currently racing against international competitors in Europe and the Middle East, all with the goal of reaching Formula 1.
Her competitive karting journey began in the UAE at the tender age of six. During the 2022–23 season, she was named vice-champion in the UAE IAME National Karting Championship in the Mini R category.
In February 2025, she celebrated a podium finish at the IAME Summer Cup held at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. Mir also made history as the first Indian female driver to qualify for the finals of the Rotax Euro Trophy in South Garda, Italy, in 2024.
Latter that year, she triumphed in a race in the Micro Max category at the Rotax Max Challenge International Trophy (RMCIT) in Le Mans, France, becoming the first female racer to achieve this milestone.
In January 2025, she joined the Babyrace Driver Academy in Italy to participate in the WSK Karting Series.
Additionally, she became the sole Asian driver chosen for the Iron Dames Young Talent programme in 2024.
In 2025, she was selected for the Formula 1 Academy's 'Discover Your Drive' programme, designed to cultivate young female talent in motorsport.
She stood out as the only Asian and one of the youngest participants. Shortly thereafter, she was recruited by AKCEL GP, a UAE-based karting team associated with the F1 Academy.
Born in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, she relocated to Dubai at a young age. She initially engaged in recreational electric kart racing before advancing to professional karting.
Her father, Asif Nazir Mir, a former national karting champion in India, has been a significant supporter of her racing career.
Point of View
It is evident that Atiqa Mir is a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes, particularly young women in motorsport. Her achievements reflect a growing recognition of diverse talent in a traditionally male-dominated field. Our nation must continue to support and celebrate such emerging stars who represent our potential on global platforms.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What achievements has Atiqa Mir accomplished in her racing career?
Atiqa Mir has secured notable achievements including finishing 4th in the European Karting Championship and being the first Indian female driver to qualify for the finals of the Rotax Euro Trophy in Italy.
Who is supporting Atiqa Mir in her racing journey?
Atiqa is supported by her father, Asif Nazir Mir, a former national karting champion in India, who has been instrumental in her racing career.
What is the 'Discover Your Drive' program?
The 'Discover Your Drive' program is an initiative by the Formula 1 Academy aimed at promoting young female talent in motorsport, in which Atiqa is a participant.
Where did Atiqa Mir begin her karting career?
Atiqa began her competitive karting career in the UAE at the age of six.
What future aspirations does Atiqa Mir have?
Atiqa Mir aspires to become the first Kashmiri to race in Formula 1, showcasing her talents on a global stage.
