Arshi Gupta becomes first Indian female karting champion

Nine-year-old Arshi Gupta has made Indian motorsport history by winning the 2025 FMSCI National Karting Championship (Rotax) in the Micro Max class at Meco Kartopia, Bengaluru. Racing against boys and girls aged 8–12, the Delhi Public School, Faridabad student sealed the title in only her second competitive season, becoming both the first Indian female and the youngest champion in the Rotax series’ 21-year history.

Season highlights and decisive round

Arshi, born on 18 October 2016 in Faridabad, races for Leapfrog Racing. She built title momentum by winning Round 3 at the Madras International Karting Arena in August 2025, followed by strong victories in Coimbatore. In the Bengaluru finale, she charged from mid-grid to win the Pre-Final, then converted pole position into a composed victory in the Final to clinch the national crown.

On-track craft in Micro Max

Competing in the Micro Max category demands precision racecraft and consistency. Arshi showcased clean starts, disciplined tyre management and decisive overtakes, minimising errors under pressure. Her adaptability across high-grip Chennai, flowing Coimbatore, and technical Bengaluru circuits underlined a well-rounded skill set unusual at this age bracket.

Training pathway and early start

Arshi began structured karting after her father noticed her affinity for speed during cycling sessions. Initial coaching at a Gurugram track under Rohit Khanna in 2023 laid the base. She debuted at the Meritus Cup in 2024 and stepped up to Rotax Nationals in 2025 as the youngest female entrant. A five-month UAE stint and a 10-week UK programme sharpened pace and race etiquette. She also holds an India Book of Records recognition as the youngest female to obtain a National Karting Licence, and placed fourth for Team India at the Asia Pacific Motorsports Championships (Sri Lanka) in September 2025.

Exam Oriented Facts

• First Indian female and youngest champion in 21 years of Rotax India.
• Won Pre-Final and Final at Meco Kartopia to secure title.
• Round wins: Chennai (MIKA, Aug 2025) and Coimbatore.
• Born 18 October 2016; represents Leapfrog Racing in Micro Max.

Impact on India’s motorsport pipeline

Arshi’s breakthrough underscores the depth emerging in Indian grassroots racing and provides a visible pathway for young girls entering competitive karting. Her progression—from local coaching to international training blocks and national success—highlights how early, structured exposure, data-driven practice, and multi-circuit experience can accelerate development within India’s expanding karting ecosystem.