A dramatic victory from last place marked Mitch Evans' redemption at the Sao Paulo Formula E race, turning around what started as a troublesome weekend due to practice and qualifying issues.

Despite mechanical setbacks that left him starting from the back of the grid, Evans executed a strategic race to claim an unlikely win in the Season 11 opener, making up for his heartbreaking loss at the same venue last season.

Key to Evans' victory was his tactical use of Attack Mode, which now provides front-wheel power boost alongside additional energy for eight minutes during the race. By delaying his final Attack Mode activation, Evans successfully overtook competitors who had already used their allocation.

"I just went with my gut," Evans explained about his Attack Mode strategy. "None of us have experience racing with that type of contrast between the two power levels."

The victory wasn't secured until the final corner, with TAG Heuer Porsche's Antonio Felix da Costa applying constant pressure. Evans also had to defend against the NEOM McLaren duo of Taylor Barnard and Sam Bird, who gained an energy advantage through a unique combination of penalties and red flag periods.

Two red flag interventions played a crucial role in Evans' victory, with the second providing just enough energy buffer to maintain his lead without significant energy conservation. The win marks a remarkable turnaround from last season's disappointing finish at the same circuit, though Evans admitted the previous defeat "still really hurts."

"Just a crazy, crazy one today," Evans reflected. "Lining up on the grid, I was first just hoping to see the checkered flag. This result was so unexpected off the back of what happened in qualifying, so I'm happy for that bit. A bit surprised, but I'll take it."

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