German Grand Prix 2006 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Michael Schumacher claimed an emotional victory at his home German Grand Prix, leading Felipe Massa to Ferrari's second consecutive one-two finish and taking the championship lead for the first time in 2006. The German legend's third straight win at Hockenheim was greeted with rapturous celebrations from his devoted fans, while Fernando Alonso's fourth-place finish marked a disastrous weekend for the defending champion who now trailed Schumacher by two points with six races remaining.

Starting from third on the grid behind Kimi Räikkönen's pole position, Schumacher executed a brilliant race strategy to seize victory at the circuit where he had announced his retirement decision would come at season's end. The seven-time champion's pace was relentless, and he set the fastest lap while controlling the race in the closing stages. The Hockenheim crowd erupted in joy as their hero crossed the line, with Schumacher's third consecutive victory marking one of the most impressive winning streaks of his legendary career. His performance demonstrated that at 37, he remained as fast and determined as ever.

Massa provided perfect support in second place, ensuring Ferrari's domination and extending their constructor's championship lead. The Brazilian's consistent podium finishes were proving invaluable to Ferrari's title campaigns. Räikkönen salvaged third place for McLaren after starting from pole, unable to match Ferrari's race pace. Alonso endured a nightmare race, struggling for pace and finishing fourth - his worst result of races he had completed all season. The championship pendulum had swung completely in three races, with Schumacher transforming a 25-point deficit into a two-point lead. The German's home victory sparked wild speculation about whether he might reverse his retirement decision if he claimed an eighth world title.