Second Was Better Than A Win

Dale Calkins

While most Tifosi would have been extatic if Michael Schumacher had have dominated in Bahrain, I am pleased he did not. Schumacher and Ferrari always seem to win with utter dominance, a great thing for the Tifosi but not for anybody else. If Schumacher had have won in Bahrain that would have been excellent but only if he had have had a challenge for the victory.

In Bahrain, Schumacher had real competition from Fernando Alonso and this was absolutely wonderful. Schumacher and Alonso actually had a genuine battle, albeit most of it was in the pits. If Schumacher had have beaten Alonso by a slim margin, this would have been the best result. Unfortunately Michael lost out by a few inches at the final pit stop.

The first race of the season is an excellent indication of what is to come for the rest of the year. If Michael had have won by a vast distance at Sakhir, that would have likely meant that he would continue to do so throughout 2006. Luckily Schumacher was right up at the front fighting for the victory, the most exciting possibility. If Ferrari can continue to provide a package like that of which they provided in Bahrain, then hopefully both Michael and Felipe will be able to fight for the victories alongside the drivers from Honda, McLaren and Renault.

Ferrari dominance is the worst thing for the sport and competitive running from Ferrari, Renault, Honda and McLaren is exactly what Formula 1 and its fans need. Expect and incredible season to come.

March 13, 2006

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