Legend: Image by Andrew Ferraro provided by Formula E
Antonio Felix da Costa was shockingly disqualified from the final result of the Misano E-Prix, depriving him of a significant and thrilling triumph. Nissan’s Oliver Rowland was elevated to the race winner position.
The Portuguese driver kept his composure amidst the turbulence to secure the victory, despite increasing speculations about his future with Tag Heuer Porsche. However, several hours after the race, the stewards determined that his team used an illegal acceleration damper spring, violating Article 1.3.3 of the International Sporting Code.
As a result, Oliver Rowland was promoted to the winner position, Jake Dennis now occupies second place, and Max Günther takes third.
Here is the current situation after António Félix da Costa’s disqualification from the #MisanoEPrix.
The FIA provided an explanation, stating:
“The Team Manager and manufacturer’s representative clarified that they did not make any changes to the Acceleration Damper Spring since the beginning of Season 9.
“The Team Manager acknowledged that the sealed component, as shown in the appendix of Technical Report 13, was installed on da Costa’s Car 13 and sealed in the presence of the team’s Chief Mechanic. The Team Manager also stated that the sealed part is not listed in the Spark (pedals) list.
“He explained that modifications in the Spark catalog are usually highlighted to ensure visibility of changes, but not for removals.”
Porsche has expressed its intention to appeal the decision and has 96 hours to do so after the verdict.
Da Costa responded to the decision in a reply to Formula E’s post confirming the change, stating: “The acceleration damper spring was an original component from Spark that was used throughout last year and was omitted from the regulations without notifying the teams… How many other cars out there are using this spring?”
If Da Costa’s claims are true, this statement raises concerns about several teams and potentially reveals a significant issue.
Rowland posted: “Once again, I am the race winner in Formula E, although there is a slightly bitter taste, as today should have been your moment, @afelixdacosta!”
