- Nine-year-old Arshi Gupta has made history by becoming the first Indian female and the youngest-ever champion in the FMSCI National Karting Championship (Rotax) . She clinched the 2025 Micro Max title at Meco Kartopia, Bengaluru , competing against boys and girls aged 8–12. Representing Leapfrog Racing , the young prodigy from Delhi Public School, Faridabad , sealed the championship in only her second competitive season, marking a landmark moment for Indian motorsport.
Season Journey and Title-Deciding Round
- Born on 18 October 2016 in Faridabad, Arshi gained momentum with her Round 3 victory at the Madras International Karting Arena (MIKA) in August 2025 and follow-up wins in Coimbatore . In the Bengaluru finale, she rose from mid-grid to win the Pre-Final before securing a dominant Final race victory , claiming the national crown. Her consistent form, tactical driving, and control under pressure distinguished her from more experienced rivals.
Skill and Development Pathway
- Competing in the Micro Max class requires precision and consistency, and Arshi displayed mature racecraft — mastering starts, overtakes, and tyre management. Her development began in 2023 under coach Rohit Khanna in Gurugram, later enhanced by stints in the UAE and the UK , where she honed pace and race discipline. She also holds an India Book of Records entry as the youngest female to obtain a National Karting Licence , and represented Team India at the Asia Pacific Motorsports Championship (Sri Lanka, 2025) , finishing fourth.
Exam Pointers
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Champion: Arshi Gupta (Leapfrog Racing)
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Achievement: First Indian female and youngest Rotax India champion
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Category: Micro Max (Ages 8–12)
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Venues: Meco Kartopia (Bengaluru), MIKA (Chennai), Coimbatore
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Born: 18 October 2016, Faridabad
Significance
Arshi’s achievement signals a new chapter for Indian motorsport , especially for female participation at the grassroots level. Her rise reflects how structured training, international exposure, and early opportunities can create a strong pipeline for India’s future racing talent.
Month: Current Affairs - November 11, 2025
Category: Sports – Motorsports