Our Bureau
Srinagar
Eleven-year-old Indian racer Atiqa Mir has received a strong endorsement from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), with the world motorsport governing body describing rising young drivers such as her as helping redefine the future of motorsport.
Mir, who has Kashmiri roots, has been competing against older drivers in European karting and is currently racing in the 12-14 age category. She is also the first Indian racer to receive backing from the F1 Academy, a programme aimed at developing female racing talent and creating pathways towards higher levels of motorsport.
Her recent performances have brought her international attention. At the FIA European Championship round in Sweden this month, Mir became the youngest Indian to register two top-10 finishes in a championship round, securing ninth and 10th places in the heat races.
The youngster had earlier produced another standout performance in Italy, securing pole position in the Champions of the Future Academy and setting an event record while competing against a highly competitive international field. She also completed a historic sweep in the second round of the academy series in Greece in May.
The FIA said Mir’s progress demonstrates the opportunities that international competition can provide to young drivers developing their skills. The governing body also acknowledged the support of its member club, the Western India Automobile Association, in her journey.
With a long-term ambition of reaching Formula One, Mir’s growing record is positioning her as one of India’s most promising young motorsport talents. Her performances are also adding momentum to efforts to create greater opportunities for women in racing.