Kashmir’s Atiqa Mir shortlisted for Iron Dames’ Young Talents Initiative

New Delhi, July 5: Atiqa Mir, a nine-year-old racing prodigy from Kashmir and the fastest Indian girl in four-wheel motorsports, has been shortlisted for the inaugural selection process of the Iron Dames’ Young Talents initiative.

This Switzerland-based all-women motorsports team aims to identify and nurture young female kart racers aged 8-13 who aspire to careers in motorsport.

The first selection round is scheduled for July 29-30, 2024, in Franciacorta, Italy. Atiqa is not only the sole Asian karter but also the youngest among the 11 girls shortlisted worldwide.

Iron Dames, known for their historic victories in world endurance racing, including becoming the first all-female team to win a FIA World Endurance Championship race in 2023, seeks to develop the next generation of female racing stars through this initiative.

Atiqa expressed her excitement: “I’m truly honoured to be shortlisted for the Iron Dames Young Talent selection process. It motivates me to further improve my skills as a driver. I will prepare myself better than ever to excel in the selections and make India proud.”

The selection process involved a meticulous review of global applicants by the Iron Dames detection cell, assessing candidates based on passion, determination, motorsport background, and career aspirations.

Shortlisted candidates will undergo rigorous scouting events evaluating driving skills, commitment, work ethic, and alignment with Iron Dames’ values. The Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) congratulated Atiqa, with Deputy Secretary General V.S Shriakant expressing best wishes for the selection rounds.

The evaluation will be supported by experts from Italy’s PREMA Racing team. Exceptional talents may join the Iron Dames family, benefiting from personalized development programs, mentorship, and access to top-tier training facilities.

Atiqa, the reigning IAME UAE National Vice-Champion, has multiple victories and titles worldwide. She recently finished as Runner-up in Round 1 of the MECO RMC Indian National Karting Championship and will compete in Round 2 this weekend at MECO Kartopia Track in Bengaluru, driving for MSPORT.