Bahrain Grand Prix 2006 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Fernando Alonso began the defense of his World Championship with a commanding victory at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, holding off Michael Schumacher's charging Ferrari to secure a crucial early advantage in what would become one of the most intense title battles in Formula 1 history. The Spaniard's mature drive from second on the grid demonstrated his growth as a champion, while Schumacher's pole position and relentless pursuit served notice that Ferrari had emerged from their difficult 2005 season ready to challenge for both titles.

Starting from pole with a stunning lap of 1:31.431, Schumacher appeared poised to dominate at the Bahrain International Circuit under the desert lights. However, Alonso executed a brilliant start to seize the lead into Turn 1, and from there the defending champion controlled the race with precision. The Renault R26 showed excellent race pace, and Alonso managed his tires expertly in the searing heat while fending off constant pressure from Schumacher. The German maestro pushed hard throughout, closing to within striking distance on multiple occasions, but Alonso never made a mistake and kept his Ferrari rival at arm's length.

Kimi Räikkönen secured third place for McLaren-Mercedes, providing encouragement that the MP4-21 could challenge for podiums despite being off the ultimate pace of the front-runners. Rookie Nico Rosberg impressed by setting the fastest lap on his Formula 1 debut for Williams-Cosworth, announcing his arrival as a future star. The race established the season's narrative - Alonso's consistency and racecraft versus Schumacher's raw speed and decades of experience, with Ferrari's resurgence threatening Renault's dominance. Alonso's victory gave him the perfect start to his title defense and set the tone for a championship battle that would captivate fans worldwide.