Canadian Grand Prix 2006 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Fernando Alonso claimed his sixth victory of the season at the Canadian Grand Prix, controlling the race from pole position to extend his championship lead to a commanding 25 points at the halfway point of the season. The Spaniard's masterful drive at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve demonstrated his superiority in 2006, while Michael Schumacher's second-place finish marked his frustration at being unable to match Alonso's consistency despite Ferrari's competitive pace.

Starting from pole with a lap of 1:14.942, Alonso made his customary perfect start and pulled away from the field on Montreal's challenging semi-street circuit. The Renault driver managed the race with typical precision, controlling his pace while navigating the circuit's notorious wall-lined sections that punish the slightest error. Alonso's ability to deliver flawless performances under pressure was becoming the defining characteristic of his championship defense, and his Canadian victory marked his sixth win from nine races - a dominant strike rate that left rivals scrambling for answers.

Schumacher drove another strong race to finish second, but the result highlighted his growing predicament - he was consistently scoring podiums but couldn't convert them into victories needed to close the championship gap. The German's frustration was evident as Alonso continued to deliver week after week. Kimi Räikkönen completed the podium in third place for McLaren, with the Finn setting the fastest lap. The race was relatively clean, though several drivers found the walls that make Montreal so demanding. Alonso's victory at the season's halfway mark established him as the overwhelming favorite to retain his crown, with his 25-point advantage representing a significant cushion over Schumacher's relentless but increasingly futile pursuit.