La Conca (Italy): Atiqa Mir, the rising star of Kashmiri motorsport, has recently made a significant achievement by securing a spot with the Modena Racing Team for the upcoming 2026 season. The WSK Championship is renowned as the Formula 1 of karting, making this opportunity a major milestone in Atiqa’s young career.
At just 11 years old, Atiqa has displayed remarkable talent and determination by transitioning to the competitive junior category, which is specifically designed for drivers aged 12–14.
Atiqa Mir WSK 2026: Embracing the Junior Category
Following her impressive performances in the Mini category last season, Atiqa caught the attention of the Formula 1 Academy-supported Modena Racing Team, leading to her selection for the full 2026 campaign. She is set to compete in prestigious events such as the WSK Super Master Series, WSK Euro Series, and WSK Final Cup, positioning herself as a standout talent in the karting world.
By venturing into the OKNJ category of WSK, Atiqa is not only making history as the first Indian female driver to do so but also standing out as the sole female participant among 37 elite drivers from various countries.
The Significance of WSK as a Premier Karting Platform
The WSK series is renowned for attracting top-tier talent and industry-leading kart and engine manufacturers, making it the pinnacle of international karting competition. This championship serves as a crucial stepping stone for aspiring professional drivers, honing their skills in racecraft, technical proficiency, and competitive spirit.
It is worth noting that esteemed Formula 1 champions like Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Sebastian Vettel kickstarted their careers by participating in WSK during their developmental phases.
Stepping Up: Transitioning from Mini to OKNJ
Atiqa’s progression from the Mini class to the high-performance OKNJ junior category signifies a significant leap in technical demands. With a shift from 10 bhp engines to 29 bhp machines, she will now navigate larger karts capable of reaching speeds up to 126 kmph and generating substantial G-forces, testing her physical endurance and strategic acumen against the best in the world.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Atiqa remarked, “Joining Modena Racing Team, the reigning world champions, is a privilege and a challenge I eagerly embrace. Competing against the finest drivers globally motivates me to push my limits and strive for excellence.”
A Visionary Approach: Nurturing Talent for Success
Atiqa’s father, Asif Mir, a distinguished figure in Indian motorsport as the first National Karting Champion, strategically opted to accelerate her progression into the junior class. This deliberate decision underscores the commitment to Atiqa’s long-term development and her ultimate goal of reaching Formula 1, emphasizing the importance of skill enhancement over immediate victories.
As Asif Mir elaborated, “Our focus is on Atiqa’s holistic growth as a driver. While the transition to the OKNJ category poses challenges, her physical readiness and mental resilience will be instrumental in overcoming them, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.”
Embarking on the WSK 2026 Season in Italy
Atiqa’s inaugural race in the WSK 2026 calendar is scheduled for January 25 at La Conca, Italy, marking a historic moment for Indian and Kashmiri motorsport as she commences her journey in the WSK Super Master Series amidst fervent anticipation and support.
