Lonato, Italy: Indian racing prodigy Atiqa Mir has achieved a landmark feat by emerging as the highest-ranked female driver in the latest FIA International Karting Rankings (IKR) in her category, underlining her rapid rise in global motorsport.
The 11-year-old sensation is placed seventh overall in the highly competitive OK-NJ class (12–14 years), a ranking compiled by the sport’s governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile. The standings are currently topped by Switzerland’s Zoltan Coigny.
Atiqa, the first Indian to be backed by the Formula 1 Academy, was fast-tracked into the junior category at the start of 2026, a move that has already paid rich dividends. She clinched a historic podium in the opening round of the Champions of the Future Academy in Valencia last month, reinforcing her credentials on the international stage.
She also impressed in the WSK Super Master Series, finishing eighth among 53 drivers in the final round at Franciacorta—another strong statement against a competitive field.
Her father, Asif Mir, India’s first national karting champion, hailed the achievement as a proud moment while stressing the importance of sustained progress. “Atiqa has reached a big milestone through hard work and strong support. But in racing, standing still means moving backwards,” he said.
After a short break, Atiqa is back testing in Lonato, gearing up for the upcoming WSK Euro Round 2 at the same circuit—another crucial step in her journey toward the ultimate dream of Formula 1.
Source: TNIE
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