The news of Antonio Felix da Costa’s departure from the Jota Porsche Hypercar squad for the upcoming season has left fans and the team disheartened. Da Costa, who secured the Formula E championship in 2019/20 with DS Techeetah and the LMP2 WEC championship with Jota in 2022, expressed his sadness about not being able to continue racing for the British team alongside his Porsche commitments. While he understands the reasoning behind this decision, it is evident that da Costa’s passion for racing is what drives him the most.
Da Costa, at 32 years old, has always been willing to undertake double programs throughout his racing career. He has successfully managed the demanding schedule since 2014, when he simultaneously raced for the Aguri team in Formula E and the BMW MTEK squad in the DTM. Despite his ability to handle the workload and maintain his fitness and performance levels, da Costa acknowledges the compromises that he must make to seize the opportunities presented to him.
Unfulfilled Dreams
The Portuguese driver expressed his disappointment at missing out on the chance to compete in the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours next year due to his departure from the Jota Porsche Hypercar squad. While da Costa is open to the possibility of returning for a one-off race, he is aware that his ultimate goal is to achieve success in the top class of the World Endurance Championship (WEC). His previous achievements in the GTE Pro and LMP2 classes only fueled his desire to conquer the top category, making his departure all the more disheartening.
Da Costa first entered the WEC as a BMW factory driver, racing with the German manufacturer’s M8 GTE in the 2018/19 season. He then made a transition into the prototype ranks with Jota the following season, culminating in a remarkable LMP2 title and victory at Le Mans alongside Will Stevens and Roberto Gonzalez. This success prompted the team’s move up to the Hypercar class from this year’s Spa round in April. Da Costa’s dedication and achievements make it clear that endurance racing is where his heart lies.
The Future of Jota Porsche Hypercar Squad
With da Costa’s departure, Jota Porsche Hypercar squad is left with a significant void to fill for the upcoming season. The team had initially envisioned star signings to strengthen their lineup, including Formula 1 world champions Sebastian Vettel and Jenson Button and the ever-talented Robert Kubica. These negotiations are ongoing, and Jota hopes to secure a formidable squad capable of challenging for top honors in the World Endurance Championship.
Despite bidding farewell to Jota Porsche Hypercar squad, da Costa remains adamant about returning to the World Endurance Championship in the future. He is determined to once again climb the podium, this time in the top class of the championship. His unwavering commitment and undying passion for endurance racing will undoubtedly pave the way for his eventual reunion with the prestigious championship.
Antonio Felix da Costa’s departure from the Jota Porsche Hypercar squad is undoubtedly a significant loss for both the team and fans alike. His achievements, dedication, and burning passion for racing make him a force to be reckoned with in the world of endurance racing. While his departure may be disheartening, there is hope that da Costa will soon return to the World Endurance Championship, determined to fulfill his dreams and make a lasting impact in the top class.
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