10-Year-Old Indian Creates History! Secures Pole And Finishes 3rd In F1 Academy-Backed Series

Last Updated:November 11, 2025, 11:21 IST

Atiqa Mir, a 10-year-old from Jammu and Kashmir, made history as the first female to claim pole in COTFA mini class.

A star in the making. (PTI Photo)

Indian racing sensation Atiqa Mir achieved a historic milestone by securing pole position and finishing third on the podium in the opening round of the Formula 1 Academy-backed COTFA UAE karting series.

The 10-year-old, who is the first Indian to be supported by Formula 1, is already part of the Champions of the Future Academy (COTFA) international series. Last month, Atiqa was selected by the Formula 1 Academy for the two-round COTFA UAE championship.

With increased attention on this championship, there was significant pressure on Atiqa to perform, and she did not disappoint. She clinched pole position, becoming the first female in the world to achieve this feat in the COTFA mini class, and added a Heat win to her successful weekend.

Atiqa capped off a memorable week by finishing third in the final. She entered the weekend after a stellar October, during which she secured multiple podiums across championships, including a race win at the RMC Championship.

“It was a great weekend for me speed-wise. I got pole in qualifying and wanted the win in the final but came away with 3rd. I will learn from this weekend and try to improve," said the young racer from Jammu and Kashmir.

The COTFA series ensures a level playing field for all drivers by using equal equipment and engines, allowing true talent to shine.

Asif Mir, Atiqa’s father and India’s first National Karting Champion, described the weekend as mixed despite the pole position and podium finish.

“A bittersweet weekend. I thought we had the pace and track position to win. A bit disappointed but also mindful that if we are disappointed by 3rd in such a big race, then we must be doing something right. Atiqa performed well all weekend and raced hard," he said.

With PTI Inputs

Feroz Khan

Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital...Read More

Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital...

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News sports 10-Year-Old Indian Creates History! Secures Pole And Finishes 3rd In F1 Academy-Backed Series

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