Antonio Felix da Costa admitted it was hard work to win the qualifying race around the streets of Macau, especially with the lack of power steering on the current Formula 3 Dallara.
The Portuguese driver is bidding for a second outright victory at the legendary event, and now has the best possible opportunity as his victory in the qualifying race gives him pole position for the main race on Sunday.
Felix da Costa made a good start to run second behind Callum Ilott, before the Carlin driver made a decisive move for the lead into Lisboa on the restart following an early safety car.
“My car gave me the confidence to push, and at the restart I was close enough I was able to make the pass,” said Felix da Costa. “After that I pulled a bit of a gap while still keeping in the safety margin.
“It was hard work out there though; I’m used to power steering now so my arms felt it!”
Felix da Costa admitted the restart was key to the victory, and felt he was able to keep the gap to Ilott enough to be able to keep him at bay until the chequered flag.
“The key was to do a good restart after the safety car,” added Felix da Costa on Motorsport.com. “Callum did a good restart, he did all he could do, but I was just close enough and was able to pass.
“After that I was able to pull a little bit of a gap, just to keep me on the safety margin in terms of a tow.”
