Of the eleven girls who applied, Atiqa is the only Asian and youngest to make the shortlist.
Shortlisted for the first-ever selection process of the cult Swiss all-women motorsports team Iron Dames’ new Young Talents program is 9-year-old racing phenom Atiqa Mir, the quickest Indian girl on four wheels. Young female kart racers between the ages of eight and thirteen who aspire to work in motorsports are the target audience for this campaign. The first round of selection has been scheduled for July 29–30 in Franciacorta, Italy. Out of the eleven girls from all around the world that were shortlisted, Atiqa is the youngest and only other Asian karter.
In 2023, the Iron Dames were the first all-female team to win a race in the FIA World Endurance Championship, marking a series of landmark victories and innovations at the top of endurance racing. From their stables, the Young Talents program will showcase the upcoming generation of female race stars.
“I’m incredibly honored to have made the Iron Dames Young Talent shortlist. That gives me even more motivation to work hard and hone my driving abilities. “I’m going to put in a lot of effort and better prepare myself than before to win the selections and represent India with pride,” declared Atiqa.
After a lengthy list of candidates from all over the world were screened using a variety of criteria, Atiqa was chosen. The Iron Dames detection cell carefully examined each entry, evaluating the candidates on the basis of their drive, passion, experience in motorsports, and the depth of their career goals.
The international scope and inclusive nature of the Iron Dames initiative are reflected in the wide diversity of nationalities among the chosen participants.
Thorough scouting events will be used to assess each of the nominated applicants. Criteria will include driving prowess, dedication, work ethic, and a fit with the Iron Dames’ philosophy and ideals.
“Atiqa often competes in the Rotax Max division of our MECO FMSCI National Karting Championship. V.S. Shrikant, the deputy secretary general of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India, said, “We congratulate her on this accomplishment and wish her the best of luck for the selection rounds.”
The professionals from the PREMA Racing motorsport team, based in Italy, will assist with the evaluation. Outstanding candidates identified by this procedure will be given the chance to become members of the Iron Dames family, where they will get individualized growth plans, guidance from seasoned motorsports experts, and use of first-rate training facilities.Atiqa holds the title of IAME UAE National Vice-Champion and has won numerous championships and competitions across the globe. Atiqa placed second in the first round of the MECO RMC Indian National Karting Championship, where she recently participated. This coming weekend, Atiqa will be back in India, competing for MSPORT in Round 2 at Bengaluru’s MECO Kartopia Track.
