Young Indian star rewrites UAE racing history

At just 10 years old, Indian karting prodigy Atiqa Mir has smashed barriers in UAE motorsport, becoming the first-ever female winner in the MiniMax category of the DAMC Championship. The young racer delivered a commanding performance at the Dubai Kartdrome, clinching both pole position and victory in the season opener.

Competing in a grid of 14 drivers that included experienced European race winners, Atiqa proved unshaken by the challenge. The only girl on the track, she kept her race clean and within limits to cross the chequered flag ahead of the field. It was the first time a female driver secured both pole and final victory in the MiniMax class, marking a landmark achievement for Indian motorsport.

Signed earlier this year by Formula 1’s F1 Academy DYD program, Atiqa described the victory as “special,” noting that Dubai Kartdrome is where her racing journey began. “Despite limited preparation, I managed to stay on pace. Big thanks to my sponsors for their support,” she said after the win.

Fresh from a successful European season, the young star will now head to Slovakia for the Champions of the Future Academy Round 4 under the F1 DYD banner.

Racing runs in her family; her father, Asif Nazir Mir, is a former Formula Asia vice-champion. Idolising reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen, Atiqa dreams of one day reaching the pinnacle of motorsport herself.