NEW DELHI: Indiaโs rising karting star, Atiqa Mir, is set to make history by competing in the 2025 World Series Karting (WSK) Championships. At just 10 years old, Atiqa will become the first Indian female to race in the prestigious WSK, often called the โFormula 1โ of karting. Her journey to this milestone began after an impressive performance at a test session held at the La Conca Circuit in Italy, where she earned a spot with Babyrace, a 29-time WSK champion team, for the full 2025 season.
Leornado Lorandi, Team Manager at Babyrace, shared his excitement about Atiqaโs potential: โWe are thrilled to have Atiqa join our team. Her exceptional win at Le Mans last year, along with her strong performance during testing, made her an easy choice. She has immense talent, and we are committed to helping her reach her full potential.โ
Atiqa, from Jammu and Kashmir, will race in three major WSK Championships in 2025: the WSK Super Master Series, WSK Euro Series, and WSK Final Cup. As the only female driver in the Mini class, sheโll compete against over 60 top young karting talents.
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A Proud Moment for Indian Motorsport
Speaking about her historic achievement, Atiqa said:
โIโm thrilled to race in the WSK with Babyrace. This is the highest level of karting Iโve ever experienced, and I know it will be a challenge. But Iโm ready to work hard, learn quickly, and represent India on this incredible platform. Iโm deeply thankful to Babyrace, my parents, sponsors, and supporters for believing in me.โ
Indiaโs first Formula 1 driver, Narain Karthikeyan, praised Atiqaโs journey:
โAtiqa is a beacon of hope for Indian motorsport. Her ranking as the worldโs #1 female karter in her age group is a phenomenal achievement. Competing in WSK places her in the company of legends like Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Sebastian Vettel, who all started their careers in karting. With the right support, Atiqa has the potential to go far.โ
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A Trailblazer for Indian Women in Motorsport
Atiqaโs achievements include:
- First and only female to win a race at the RMC International Trophy in Le Mans, France.
- First Indian female to finish as 2nd runner-up at the Champions of the Future Academy Program.
- Vice Champion in the UAE IAME National Championship 2024.
- Record-holder for the most pole positions by a female in her category.
Asif Nazir, Atiqaโs father and Indiaโs first National Karting Champion, highlighted the challenges ahead:
โThe WSK will be a demanding experience for Atiqa. Sheโll face new tracks, weather conditions, and fierce competition. But her dedication and hard work will surely shine through.โ
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The WSK is widely regarded as the pinnacle of karting, attracting the best young drivers, top kart manufacturers, and engine suppliers from around the world. With its rigorous race format and high level of competition, it has been a training ground for Formula 1 stars like Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, and George Russell.
Atiqaโs journey is an inspiring testament to talent, perseverance, and breaking barriers. As she takes on this incredible challenge, she carries the hopes and support of an entire nation.
