2006 F1 Season

The 2006 Formula One World Championship was a season of intense rivalry and significant changes. Fernando Alonso and Renault emerged victorious, with Alonso defending his title and Renault claiming the Constructors’ Championship. The season was marked by a fierce battle between Alonso and Michael Schumacher, with the latter making a strong comeback for Ferrari. Schumacher’s performance included a controversial moment at the Monaco Grand Prix, where he was penalized for deliberately stopping his car during qualifying. Despite this, he won several races, including his fourth consecutive victory at the Indianapolis Grand Prix.

Regulatory changes played a crucial role in the season’s dynamics. Tyre changes returned, and a new qualifying system was introduced, enhancing the strategic element of the races. The season also saw the introduction of a tuned mass damper system, notably used by Renault. However, this system was later banned, impacting Renault’s performance. The season was the last for Michelin as a tyre supplier, with Bridgestone becoming the sole supplier from 2007. Additionally, the season witnessed the end of an era with Schumacher announcing his retirement, concluding a remarkable career in Formula One.