Alonso leads Ferrari romp in Bahrain

SAKHIR, Bahrain – Fernando Alonso won Sunday’s season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to lead a Ferrari 1-2 on his debut for the Italian Formula One team.

The two-time world champion passed teammate Felipe Massa at the second corner before overtaking pole-sitter Sebastian Vettel on the 34th lap for a lead he would never relinquish in a race that signalled the start of the refueling ban era.

Lewis Hamilton took third place for McLaren.

After two frustrating years at Renault, Alonso pounded his chest after jumping on top of his car. It was Ferrari’s best start to a season since 2004 – when Michael Schumacher led a 1-2 start. Alonso joined Ferrari to replace Kimi Raikkonen, who also won on his Ferrari debut three years ago.

“A very special day for me, coming back to the top of the podium is always special, but also more special with Ferrari and the history of the team and the expectations,” Alonso said. “There is no better way to start the relationship.”

Vettel’s car slowed after what his team initially thought was an exhaust issue, but later said was an engine problem. Not long after, he was passed by Massa, who claimed second on his return to racing after a life-threatening crash last July in Hungary.                  (AP)