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Atiqa Mir made history as the first Indian to secure P2 in OKNJ class debut at WSK Super Master Karting Series, impressing with speed and resilience among 37 experienced drivers.
Atiqa Mir in action (X)
Eleven-year-old racing prodigy Atiqa Mir made a sensational debut in the WSK Super Master Karting Series, becoming the first Indian to set the second-fastest time in a male-dominated qualifying grid of 37 experienced drivers.
Transitioning from the mini category (age 8-11) to the junior category (age 12-14) in 2026, Atiqa displayed impressive speed in her first outing in the OKNJ class.
As one of the youngest racers in the competition, the Formula 1 Academy-supported driver defied expectations by setting the second-fastest qualifying time, narrowly missing out on pole position by just a tenth of a second.
Atiqa, the only female on the grid, was on track for pole position with a stellar time of 49.76 seconds over the weekend. However, Finland’s Leo Latinen edged her out in the closing minutes of the session by completing an extra lap, relegating her to P2. Nonetheless, she made history as the first Indian to secure P2 on debut in the OKNJ class.
Starting on the front row for all three heat races on Friday and Saturday, Atiqa finished 4th, 6th, and 7th, respectively, and achieved the fastest lap in heat 1.
Unfortunately, her luck did not hold for the pre-final on Sunday. Starting fourth on the grid, her kart failed to start on the pre-grid, resulting in a relegation to 18th place for the final due to mechanical issues.
In the final, starting from the outside lane, Atiqa was pushed off the track at Turn 1, dropping to 22nd. She then made a remarkable recovery to finish 14th out of 37 drivers.
Reflecting on her performance, Atiqa said, “That was a good debut weekend for me. I love the OKNJ category as the karts are very fast and the power is instant. I worked hard during this weekend with the team and my coaches, as I had limited track time in this kart compared to the other drivers, who are far more experienced in this class. But we all worked hard as a team and got me up to speed. I wasn’t expecting a P2 in qualifying and almost a Pole in a debut race, what else can I ask for? Pity about the Pre Final when my kart wouldn’t start, but that is motor racing. The team Moden,a other than this have been flawless and have integrated me really well.”
Atiqa’s father, Asif Mir, a former Formula Asia Vice-Champion, expressed his satisfaction with her performance, stating, “She showed top quality speed and beat some of the best karters in the world with far more experience than her. Atiqa has proven that she has natural talent as a racer. Atiqa initially held Pole Position at the end of qualifying, and it was great to see the Indian flag on top. We will continue to work and hone her skills.”
January 27, 2026, 13:09 IST
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