ATIQA MIR Makes History as First Indian Signed to F1 Academy at Just 10

March 1, 2025

GRRL! SUMMARY:

Ten-year-old ATIQA MIR from Jammu and Kashmir just shattered barriers by becoming the first Indian and Asian driver signed to Formula 1 Academy’s Discover Your Drive Program. She’s one of only three drivers worldwide chosen for the mini category (ages 8-11), proving that talent doesn’t wait for anyone’s permission to shine. F1 Academy is backing her with full financial and technical support, covering everything from fitness to mental preparation.
ATIQA will represent F1 Academy at the Champions of the Future Academy Program Championship across six rounds in Europe and the Middle East, starting immediately. This follows her groundbreaking achievement last month when she became the first Indian female to sign for a full season with World Series Karting. The kid is collecting firsts like they’re going out of style, and we’re here for every single one.
Managing Director SUSIE WOLFF emphasized that F1 Academy isn’t just talking about change—they’re actively creating pathways for emerging female talent. The program aims to build a competitive pipeline that could eventually take a woman to Formula 1, and ATIQA just joined that select club of drivers positioned to break that ultimate barrier. When a 10-year-old from India can catch F1’s attention through pure karting excellence, it proves the global reach of women’s racing potential.