Da Costa’s Triumphs and Cassidy’s Downfall Set Up Epic Formula E Showdown
The Formula E weekend in Portland was marked by ups and downs that promise an exciting outcome to the season. António Félix da Costa shone by securing two consecutive victories, while Nick Cassidy faced a series of setbacks that compromised his leadership in the championship.
Da Costa, a DS Techeetah driver, was relentless on the track. On Saturday, his victory was assured after Mitch Evans, who had crossed the finish line first, received a five-second penalty. On Sunday, da Costa made it clear that his performance was not just luck. He achieved a solid victory, withstanding late pressure from Robin Frijns.
Mitch Evans, despite his penalty on Saturday, recovered to complete the podium on Sunday. With this recovery, he is now just 12 points behind his Jaguar teammate Nick Cassidy. Cassidy, who was leading comfortably, saw his lead narrow drastically after a disastrous weekend. On Saturday he spun while leading the race, and on Sunday he failed to score points after a pit stop to replace a damaged front wing.
Pascal Wehrlein, another title contender, also had a tumultuous weekend. On Sunday, he finished fourth, even without his front wing, which came off after contact with Edoardo Mortara. Despite the challenges, Wehrlein managed to score important points, reducing the gap to Cassidy.
The incident involving Wehrlein and Mortara almost caused a serious accident with Sam Bird, who had to swerve across the grass to avoid the wreckage. The situation was observed by the stewards, but Wehrlein continued in the race, securing crucial points in his quest for an unprecedented Formula E title.
Da Costa also suffered damage to his front wing on Sunday following contact with Mortara. The incident, which punctured the left rear tire of Mortara’s car, was investigated but resulted in no penalties for da Costa. With lots of debris on the track, the safety car was deployed on lap 18, allowing drivers like Cassidy and Jake Dennis to close in on the pack.
After the restart, da Costa took the lead and never lost it. Evans, using Attack Mode, dropped to seventh place, but quickly made up ground, finishing third. Frijns, in turn, managed to regain second position in the final laps, securing two consecutive podiums in America.
Cassidy, with more energy than his competitors, was unable to capitalize on his advantage due to the fast pace of the race after the safety car, finishing only in 13th place.
With just two races remaining in London, the battle for the Formula E title is tighter than ever. da Costa’s triumphs and Cassidy’s fall set the stage for an epic outcome, where every point will be crucial in determining the season’s champion.
