Da Costa's Porsche Formula E Saga Concludes

Formula E, Sportrik Media - Antonio Felix da Costa has officially parted ways with Porsche after three tumultuous seasons, paving the way for the Formula E grid to solidify ahead of the next campaign. The announcement, effective from September 20, 2025, resolves a prolonged saga that stalled much of the driver market. Sportrik's comprehensive analysis explores how this move reshapes teams like Jaguar and Andretti, alongside da Costa's upcoming challenges.

Da Costa's decision to exit the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team arrives nearly two months post the previous season's end, enabling teams and drivers to finalize lineups. Despite the drawn-out speculation, this departure is viewed as mutually beneficial, given Porsche's triumphs in securing the teams' and manufacturers' titles in season 11. Furthermore, it triggers a cascade of changes, with da Costa anticipated to join Jaguar to team up with Mitch Evans, following Nick Cassidy's shift to Citroen.

Driver Market Shifts Unveiled

Da Costa's exit opens a seat at Porsche, likely filled by Nico Müller from Andretti—leveraging his factory Porsche ties—to pair with Pascal Wehrlein. Meanwhile, Andretti seeks Müller's replacement beside Jake Dennis, where Felipe Drugovich, Aston Martin F1 reserve, emerges as the frontrunner. At Cupra Kiro, the vacancy next to Dan Ticktum also draws attention.

These adjustments not only complete the grid puzzle but highlight Formula E's competitive evolution toward season 12 (2025/26). Porsche, fresh off celebrations, now prioritizes seamless integration of new talent to defend its supremacy. For da Costa, the season 6 champion, Jaguar represents a fresh arena to deploy his proven racing acumen.

Da Costa reflected, "I'm happy that it happened rather than sad that it ends. I raced for one of the world's most prestigious brands – that's an honor, and I'm proud it'll forever be part of my career." He continued, "I've been with the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team for its three most successful years, and I thank everyone I worked with, including management Thomas and Florian, and the board. Special thanks to my mechanics and engineers. Obrigado!"

Rollercoaster Journey with Porsche

Joining from DS Techeetah, da Costa endured extreme highs and lows over three seasons. His debut campaign (season 9) was largely underwhelming, though a standout Cape Town win via a last-lap pass on Jean-Eric Vergne provided a highlight. Pressure mounted into season 10 (2023/24), especially with Wehrlein established as a title threat.

Season 10's rocky start prompted Porsche to test Müller abruptly, fueling exit rumors. A dramatic Misano victory briefly salvaged his standing, only for a contentious technical disqualification to shatter the joy. Undeterred, he surged with four wins in five races, though too late to challenge Wehrlein's championship.

In season 11, da Costa delivered consistency via early double podiums, bolstering Porsche's teams' and manufacturers' title charge despite no personal victories. Sportrik views this tenure as forging a more resilient da Costa, primed for Jaguar contributions.

Porsche team principal Florian Modlinger stated, "In three intense years with us, António proved his class – with five wins in the Porsche 99X Electric. He impressed with his racecraft, reading races and advancing forward. I thank him for achievements, his direct transparency, and team appreciation." Modlinger added, "Thanks to his mechanics and engineers; their hard work restored his qualifying prowess. That enabled our Teams’ and Manufacturers’ World Championships in July. Best wishes to António."

Formula E's Forward Trajectory

Da Costa's departure signals the close of a Porsche chapter, yet sparks fresh innovation and rivalry. With the grid nearly set, season 12 promises heightened competition, amplified by F1 crossovers like Drugovich. Sportrik forecasts da Costa's growth at Jaguar, while Porsche under Müller and Wehrlein remains a title favorite. Our ongoing analysis will track these evolutions for deeper insights.