NEW DELHI: 10-year-old karting sensation Atiqa Mir F1 Academy selection has created history, making her the first Indian to join the Formula 1 Academy Driver Program. The young racer from Jammu and Kashmir is among only three girls worldwide chosen in the Mini Category (ages 8-11).
Formula 1 Academy selected Atiqa for its DYD Program after monitoring her karting performances.
She will now compete in the Champions of the Future Academy Program Championship, which includes six rounds across Europe and the Middle East, starting this weekend.
ALSO READ: Olympian Sandeep Sejwal: suspended for abusing young swimmers
A Big Step for Indian Motorsport
The F1 Academy is investing in Atiqa’s development by offering financial and technical support, covering her fitness, driving skills, and mental preparation.
Atiqa’s journey is significant for India, where opportunities for female racers in motorsport have been limited. Her selection proves that talent from the country is now gaining global recognition.
The young racer understands the importance of this opportunity.
“Being chosen by Formula 1 Academy is a huge honour for me and for India. I will work hard and give my best to repay the faith placed in me,” Atiqa said.
F1 Academy’s Vision for Female Racers
Susie Wolff, Managing Director of F1 Academy, believes this initiative will create more opportunities for young female racers.
“We must act to drive real change. More girls are competing in karting, and we want to ensure the best get opportunities to progress,” said Wolff.
The F1 Academy aims to develop female racers for higher levels of motorsport, including Formula 1, which remains the pinnacle of racing.
Atiqa joins an exclusive group of female racers striving to break into top-tier motorsport.
Last month, she became the first Indian female to sign a full-season contract with World Series Karting.
With her Atiqa Mir F1 Academy selection, she is set to inspire young Indian female racers and open doors for more talent in the future.
