New Delhi, July 5 : Atiqa Mir, the 9-year-old racing sensation who is the fastest Indian girl on four-wheels, has been shortlisted for the first-ever selection process of the cult Switzerland-based all-women motorsports team Iron Dames's new Young Talents initiative. The initiative aims to identify and develop young female kart racers between the ages of eight and 13, who dream of a career in motorsport.

The date for the first selection round has been fixed for July 29-30 in Franciacorta, Italy. Atiqa is the only Asian karter and also the youngest to be shortlisted among 11 girls from all around the world.

The Iron Dames achieved historic victories and breakthroughs at the pinnacle of World Endurance Racing, including becoming the first all-female team to win a race in the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2023. The Young Talents initiative will represent the next generation of female racing stars from their stables.

“I’m truly honoured to be shortlisted for the Iron Dames Young Talent selection process. It motivates me further to perform and improve my skills as a driver. I will work hard and prepare myself better than ever to come out on top in the selections and make India proud," said Atiqa.

Atiqa was selected from a long list of applicants from all over the world who were shortlisted based on various parameters. Each entry was meticulously reviewed by the Iron Dames detection cell, which assessed the candidates based on their passion, determination, motorsport background, and the strength of their career aspirations.

The selected participants represent a diverse range of nationalities, reflecting the global reach and inclusive spirit of the Iron Dames project.

All the shortlisted candidates will be evaluated through rigorous scouting events, which include parameters like their driving skills, commitment, work ethic, and ability to reflect the Iron Dames' values and attitude.

“Atiqa is a regular participant in our MECO FMSCI National Karting Championship -- Rotax Max. We congratulate her on this achievement and wish her the very best for the selection rounds,” said V.S Shrikant, Deputy Secretary General of the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India.

The evaluation will be conducted with the support of experts from the Italy-based PREMA Racing motorsport team. Exceptional talents discovered through this process will have the opportunity to join the Iron Dames family, benefiting from personalized development programmes, mentorship from seasoned motorsport professionals, and access to top-tier training facilities.