Sunday 2nd April 2006
The Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park was won by Fernando Alonso, driving a Renault R26. Kimi Räikkönen second, and Ralf Schumacher third. Polesitter Jenson Button retired from the race when his engine blew on the final lap, stopping just ten metres from the finish line, losing a points scoring position (fifth place) in the process. The race was not the traditional season opener, after being delayed because of the Commonwealth Games which were staged in Melbourne at the time of the opening round. Murray Walker made a return to the commentary box for a one-off with Australia’s Network Ten.