Sarno (Italy), February 16, 2026 : Making a fearless and voluntary jump from the Mini category to the far more demanding OKNJ Junior class, 11-year-old Indian karting sensation Atiqa Mir has delivered performances that underline rare talent, resilience, and racecraft well beyond her age in the early phase of the 2026 international season.
Battling sub-zero European temperatures and racing on tracks she had little prior experience of, Atiqa stood out as the only female competitor on a fiercely competitive WSK Super Masters grid. She made an instant impact by storming to an impressive P2 in qualifying at the season opener—an achievement that turned heads across the paddock.
Her momentum continued in the next round at the iconic Circuit di Napoli, where the F1 Academy-backed driver showcased exceptional control and confidence in treacherous wet conditions, setting the sixth-fastest lap. In the race, Atiqa carved her way through a male-dominated field of over 45 karts, gaining a remarkable 16 positions.
The step up from Mini (ages 8–12) to OKNJ Junior (12–14) is widely regarded as one of the toughest transitions in karting. Junior karts are 30 kg heavier (145 kg compared to 115 kg) and produce nearly three times the power, jumping from 10 bhp and 105 kmph to 29 bhp and 126 kmph. Yet, Atiqa adapted seamlessly—handling the heavier, more powerful machinery “like a duck to water.”
Her standout performances have sparked widespread discussion in the paddock, earning praise from her highly respected coach Felice Tiene, who has guided several world champions.
“I started working with Atiqa at the first test in La Conca, and immediately she showed what she’s capable of,” Tiene said. “New category, new environment, everything new—and she qualified P2 straight away. Beyond results, her attitude, work ethic, and learning ability are something special. She’s quick on tracks she doesn’t know. She’s young, has time, and I can see her winning in karting and progressing to top-level Formula racing.”
Atiqa’s father Asif Mir, himself a former Formula Asia runner-up, admitted the family took a calculated risk by pushing her straight into WSK-level competition.
“We skipped other championships and moved directly to WSK Junior. It was a big risk and demanded a lot from Atiqa,” he said. “Considering the challenges, she has exceeded expectations so far. This experience will only make her stronger for the future.”
Atiqa will be back in action at WSK Super Masters Round 3 in Italy later this week, continuing her determined journey toward the highest levels of global motorsport, with eyes firmly set on breaking barriers in Formula 1.
