Jaguar TCS Racing driver Antonio Felix Da Costa is enjoying a well-deserved break following the intense start to Formula E Season 12 at the Sao Paulo E-Prix. The Portuguese star is making the most of the Christmas and New Year hiatus by mixing relaxation with fan engagement, offering insights into the sport's unique features.
Padel Session with Racing Friends
Da Costa recently shared a glimpse of his off-season fun on social media. He posted a picture on his Instagram Stories featuring himself, his brother Pedro Felix Da Costa, aspiring F1 rookie Arvid Lindblad, and friend Duarte P. Coelho. The group had just finished a friendly but competitive match of padel, a popular racquet sport, showcasing the camaraderie among drivers during the short break from the electric racing calendar.
Simplifying Formula E's Attack Mode for New Fans
Beyond the court, Da Costa took on the role of a teacher for the sport's growing fanbase. In the first episode of his 'At Track With Dak' series on Instagram, he shared a concise video explaining one of Formula E's most exciting features: the Attack Mode.
"What is 'Attack Mode'? Let's explain it in under 30 seconds!" he challenged in the caption. In the video, filmed while walking on a track, the 33-year-old broke it down in simple terms. He described it as a "Mario Kart feature" where drivers must briefly go offline and cross three loops to activate it.
Once activated, it grants the car eight minutes of extra power—an additional 50 kilowatts (roughly 75 horsepower)—and switches the car to four-wheel drive. "Everybody has to do it twice," Da Costa explained, highlighting its strategic importance. He emphasized that using this power boost at the right moment is a crucial tool for overtaking, defending positions, and ultimately winning races.
Looking Back at a Tough Sao Paulo Debut
This off-season respite comes after a challenging debut for Da Costa with his new team, Jaguar TCS Racing, in Sao Paulo. Having switched from Porsche, his race was cut short due to a dramatic incident. Cupra Kiro rookie Josep 'Pepe' Martí collided with his car, destroying Da Costa's chances of fighting for a podium finish.
The spectacular crash saw Martí's car launched into the air before landing back on the circuit in pieces. Fortunately, neither driver was injured in the high-speed accident, a testament to the safety standards of the Formula E championship.
As Season 12 prepares to resume, Da Costa's blend of off-track relaxation and fan education shows a driver fully engaged with his sport, eager to put the Sao Paulo setback behind him and harness the power of Attack Mode for future victories.
