Atiqa Mir: First Female Racer To Win At Le Mans Kart International

Atiqa Mir, a nine-year-old racing prodigy, made history at the Le Mans Kart International circuit by becoming the first female racer to win a race in the Rotax Challenge International Trophy.

She clinched victory in Race 2 of the Micro Max Category heats. This prestigious event attracts top-kart drivers globally, including past and present champions.

Atiqa, representing the Dan Holland Racing Team in a Lando Norris kart, showcased remarkable skill throughout the week. Despite her first visit to Le Mans and no prior practice, she quickly adapted and led the practice sessions. However, she only managed 10th place in Times Qualifying due to an unclear lap.

Atiqa's Historic Win

In Race 2, Atiqa displayed exceptional speed and maturity, setting fast and consistent lap times. She made impressive passes to secure first place, making history at Le Mans. Competing against 36 drivers in her category and 318 drivers from 40 nations across all categories, Atiqa's win places her among elite drivers like Max Verstappen, George Russell, and Lando Norris.

After her historic win, Atiqa expressed her joy: "I'm so excited and happy to win the race. My first win in Europe, and we have all worked so hard for it. My team, DHR, has integrated me so well, my family has always been by my side, and all my supporters in India and other countries. Hopefully, I will keep this momentum and raise India's flag even higher."

Challenges in the Final Race

In the final race, Atiqa faced multiple racing incidents that slowed her down. She finished in 12th place, 9.497 seconds behind leader Joshua Cooke of KR Sport. Alfie Mair secured second place while Austin Oman of Sam Pollitt Racing took third.

This victory at Le Mans solidifies Atiqa's status as the top female karting driver in her age group worldwide. Next month, she will compete at Kartmasters in the UK. Additionally, she is nominated for the Iron Dames Young Talent event in Italy later this month as one of only 11 girls worldwide and the youngest candidate.

Atiqa's journey continues to inspire many young racers globally as she aims to elevate India's presence on international racing platforms.