Dubai
Atiqa Mir, a 10-year-old Indian karting talent based in Dubai, has joined the AKCEL GP Academy’s racing programme. She is now the youngest driver from the region to enter a professional motorsport development plan.
Atiqa has already built a strong name in global karting. She has raced in major championships like the Rotax Euro Trophy, WSK Euro Series, and IAME Series. Known for her fearless driving and podium finishes, she stands out as one of the few young girls racing at this level.
The AKCEL GP Academy is run by a top motorsport team from the UAE. It trains young racers for higher-level racing, starting with elite karting and aiming for Formula racing. Atiqa joins the first batch of 15 young drivers being prepared for future success.
Atiqa said racing makes her feel “strong, fast, and free.” She hopes her journey inspires other young girls in Dubai and India. “I want to show that we can race at the highest levels,” she said.
Her entry into the academy marks progress for girls in motorsport. It also fits into global efforts like F1 Academy and FIA Women in Motorsport that support women racers.
Amit Kaushal, chairman of AKCEL, praised Atiqa’s skill and focus, saying she has the potential to reach Formula 1. Over the next 15 years, AKCEL plans to help her grow from karting into a world-class driver.
Atiqa’s training in Abu Dhabi will include simulator work, physical fitness, race skills, and high-level competition in UAE and Europe—all focused on building a strong path to Formula 1.