Eleven-year-old Indian karting driver Atiqa Mir has scripted a landmark achievement by winning the prestigious Champions of the Future Academy Program in Greece, becoming only the third driver in the competition’s history to complete a clean sweep by securing pole position, winning both heat races, and claiming the final.
The young racer delivered an outstanding performance throughout the event, dominating every stage of the competition against an international field. Her victory culminated in a memorable moment as the Indian tricolour was raised and the National Anthem was played during the podium ceremony.
Reflecting on the achievement, Atiqa said the most emotional moment came when the National Anthem echoed across the venue. She described it as an unmatched feeling and said the experience of standing on the top step of the podium while representing India would remain one of the proudest moments of her career.
Atiqa’s success in Greece marks another milestone in an impressive journey that has established her among India’s brightest young motorsport talents. Despite her young age, she has consistently delivered strong performances in international karting competitions.
Born in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, Atiqa began racing in the United Arab Emirates at the age of six. She steadily progressed through the ranks and emerged as the vice champion in the UAE IAME National Karting Championship in the Mini R category during the 2022-23 season.
Her international achievements include a podium finish at the IAME Summer Cup in Abu Dhabi and becoming the first Indian female driver to qualify for the Rotax Euro Trophy finals in Italy. She later became the first female racer to win a race in the Micro Max category at the Rotax Max Challenge International Trophy in France.
Earlier, Atiqa also created history in the UAE by becoming the first female driver to win a race in the Minimax category of the Dubai Autodrome Motor Club Championship. Competing against experienced international drivers, she secured pole position before converting it into a commanding victory.
Her growing reputation earned her selection to Italy’s Babyrace Driver Academy, the Iron Dames Young Talent programme, and the Formula 1 Academy’s Discover Your Drive initiative, where she was the only Asian participant and among the youngest drivers selected.
Atiqa’s latest triumph in Greece highlights the emergence of a young Indian Muslim athlete making her mark on the global motorsport stage through talent, discipline, and consistent international success.
