From mall kart to Formula 1 dream: Dubai’s 10-year-old Atiqa Mir blazes a trail

Dubai: It all began in a mall. When she was just five, Atiqa Mir climbed into a miniature electric go-kart during a family outing. Most kids might’ve forgotten the moment. But for Atiqa, it was the ignition point of a dream — one that now has her steering toward the highest levels of global motorsport.

Today, at just 10 years of age, the Dubai-based Indian prodigy has become the youngest driver from the region to sign with a professional development programme — the AKCEL GP Academy, based in Abu Dhabi. The milestone places her on a structured path toward single-seater racing, with the long-term goal of reaching Formula 1.

“I always loved cars and speed,” Atiqa told Gulf News. “Since I was a baby, I only collected cars — never dolls or soft toys like other girls. I was different.”

Her difference is now being celebrated across the racing world. A consistent podium finisher in elite karting championships across Europe and the UAE, Atiqa’s track record already includes standout performances at the Rotax Euro Trophy, IAME Series, and a breakthrough win at the prestigious Rotax Max International Trophy in Le Mans, where she became the only female driver in the world to win a race at the event last year.

Now, as part of the AKCEL GP Academy’s inaugural class of 15 young drivers, Atiqa begins a new phase of development. She will train at a state-of-the-art facility in Abu Dhabi, combining simulator work, physical conditioning, mental coaching, racecraft training, and performance analysis — all aimed at shaping a future Formula 1 racer.

“Racing is everything to me. It’s where I feel strong, fast, and free,” she says. “I want to show young girls from Dubai and India that we can compete at the highest levels.”

That message is resonating far beyond the racetrack. With global initiatives like F1 Academy and FIA Women in Motorsport gaining momentum, Atiqa’s rise is both timely and symbolic.

“Believe in yourself, find a passion, dream it, follow it, work hard at it, never give up — and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it.”

AKCEL GP sees her as a long-term prospect.

“Atiqa’s talent, focus, and composure are well beyond her years,” said Amit Kaushal, Chairman of AKCEL Group. “We are committed to supporting her journey all the way to Formula 1.”

There’s pedigree, too. Atiqa’s father is a former national karting champion and Formula Asia Vice Champion, and both parents remain actively involved in her career.

“I couldn’t do anything without their support,” she says. “My dad and mom are always with me for every race. I’m blessed to have them.”

Her school, GEMS Jumeirah Primary School, helps her balance academics with training.

“They help me cover the work I miss, and the Academy’s structure helps me manage my time better. With expert coaches and a set routine, I’m able to keep up with both racing and school.”

Despite her age, Atiqa speaks like a seasoned competitor — especially when reflecting on setbacks.

“I’ve come to accept that crashes and bad results are part of this sport. I always focus on the positives in every bad situation.”

She also has her heroes. “I grew up watching my dad race, so he was my first hero. Now, I’m a big Max Verstappen fan. I admire how he rose quickly from karting to Formula 1 — and the confidence and determination he shows on track.”

That’s the path she hopes to follow.

“In five years, the natural progression would put me in Formula 4, and in ten years, I should be knocking on Formula 1’s door.”

And what would it mean to make it all the way? “Racing in Formula 1 is my ultimate dream.”

For now, she stays grounded — focused on training, school, and karting weekends. “The harder I work,” she smiles, “the luckier I get.”