Bahrain Grand Prix 2004 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Michael Schumacher dominated Formula 1's inaugural Bahrain Grand Prix, delivering Ferrari's third consecutive one-two finish as the championship moved to the Middle East for the first time in its history. The German controlled the race from pole position on the spectacular new desert circuit, never challenged as Rubens Barrichello followed him home for another maximum constructor haul. Jenson Button claimed his second consecutive podium for BAR-Honda in third, the Englishman's consistent early-season form establishing him as the leading challenger to Ferrari's juggernaut.

The historic maiden race at the state-of-the-art Sakhir facility showcased the sport's expansion ambitions, though the on-track action proved processional as Ferrari's superiority rendered the result a foregone conclusion. Schumacher managed the desert heat expertly, his three consecutive victories equaling his best-ever championship start. Barrichello delivered another solid supporting performance, content to secure maximum team points without challenging his teammate. Button's third place cemented his reputation as 2004's revelation, the BAR driver extracting remarkable consistency from the Honda-powered 006 chassis.

Bahrain's successful Formula 1 debut provided a commercial triumph despite limited racing excitement, the impressive facilities and enthusiastic atmosphere pointing toward F1's growing global footprint. Schumacher's third straight win meant Ferrari had scored 58 of a possible 60 points, their early-season perfection unprecedented in the modern era. The German stood on the cusp of equaling his record for consecutive victories, while rivals frantically developed upgrades in hopes of closing the performance gap to the dominant scarlet cars.