Indian racing prodigy Atiqa Mir has secured a coveted drive with the reigning world champions, Modena Racing Team, for the 2026 season of the prestigious WSK championship, often regarded as the ‘Formula 1’ of karting.
At just 11 years old, Atiqa has chosen the more challenging path to success by competing in the highly competitive junior category (age 12-14) this season.
Following her impressive performances in the mini category (age 8-12) last year, the Formula 1 Academy-supported driver has been signed for the entire season. She will compete in the WSK Super Master Series, WSK Euro Series, and WSK Final Cup, among other championships.
In doing so, Atiqa will become the first Indian female to drive in the OKNJ category in WSK and will be the only
female on a grid of 37 world-class drivers.
The WSK series is the pinnacle of karting, attracting the best driving talent from around the world as well as leading kart and engine manufacturers.
The WSK series focuses on developing young drivers by providing them with a platform to enhance their racing skills, technical knowledge, and understanding of motorsport.
Formula 1 world champions such as Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Sebastian Vettel have competed in WSK during their formative years.
Moving up to the OKNJ junior category from mini is a significant step for Atiqa, but she is prepared for the challenge. Transitioning from 10 bhp engines to 29 bhp engines, with speeds of 126 km/h and much larger karts, generating G-forces of over 2.5, Atiqa’s physical fitness and adaptability will be tested against the best in the world.
“I am so excited and grateful for Modena to sign me. To join such an elite team and reigning world champions in this class is a great honour. I will be tested against the best drivers in the world and am up for the challenge. The grids in WSK are so close and the driving level is the best in the world. I hope to learn from them and improve myself,” said Atiqa.
Atiqa’s father Asif Mir, who is India’s first National Karting Champion, said it was a conscious decision to fast track her into the junior class.
“We are putting Atiqa straight into the deep end. It is best for her development. She could have easily stayed in Mini and won races and championships, but our goal is Formula 1 and her development as a driver is of utmost importance. She has the fitness to cope with the added G Forces. Im looking forward to a tough learning year for her,” he said.
Atiqa begins her campaign on January 25 with WSK Super Master Series Round 1 in La Conca, Italy.
(With Inputs From PTI)
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