In a stunning display of skill and determination, 10-year-old Atiqa Mir has etched her name in motorsport history by securing a pole position and finishing third in the opening round of the Formula 1 Academy-backed Champions of the Future Academy (COTFA) UAE karting series. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Indian motorsport, as Atiqa becomes the first Indian driver to achieve this feat in a Formula 1 Academy-supported event.
Atiqa's journey to the top began with a historic pole position, showcasing her exceptional talent and composure on the track. Despite the immense pressure, she maintained her focus and skillfully navigated the challenging circuit, ultimately securing a well-deserved third-place finish.
The young racing prodigy is already part of the Champions of the Future Academy (COTFA) international series. Her participation in the two-round COTFA UAE championship was recently supported by Formula 1 Academy. This backing added further weight to the competition, with increased attention and expectations on Atiqa to deliver.
Atiqa's recent success is a testament to her dedication and hard work and highlights her potential as a future star in motorsport. Based in Dubai, she has competed in prestigious karting championships globally, including the Rotax Euro Trophy, Rotax International Trophy, IAME Series (UAE and Europe), WSK Euro Series, WSK Super Master Series, and the Champions of the Future Academy.
In February 2025, Atiqa was chosen by the F1 Academy for its Discover Your Drive Program (DYD) after they monitored her karting performance. She is one of only three drivers in the mini category (ages 8-11) chosen for the DYD program. The F1 Academy is investing in Atiqa's talent by providing financial and technical support, covering her fitness, driving, and mental preparation.
Acknowledging the significance of the opportunity, Atiqa stated she was excited by the news and that being chosen by Formula 1 Academy is a huge honor for her and for India.
In June 2025, Atiqa received support from UAE-based AKCEL GP, who placed her in a professional motorsport development program. Atiqa's signing coincided with the launch of the AKCEL GP Academy, designed as a training ground for the next generation of racing talent. The academy's first batch includes 15 young drivers and offers a competitive pathway through elite karting and single-seater racing.
Atiqa has expressed that racing is everything to her and that joining AKCEL GP Academy is a dream come true. She hopes to show young girls from Dubai and India that they can compete at the highest levels, with the ultimate goal of racing in Formula 1. AKCEL Group Chairman Amit Kaushal has said that Atiqa's talent and focus are beyond her years and that they are committed to guiding her development from karting to single-seaters over the next 15 years, with the aim of her becoming a world-class racer and future F1 contender.
Atiqa Mir's historic pole position and podium finish represent a significant achievement for the young racer and a proud moment for Indian motorsport. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring racers across the nation, demonstrating that with talent, hard work, and dedication, anything is possible.
