Hakkinen hot favourite for Malaysia

The McLaren driver could clinch the 1999 title if he wins and Eddie Irvine finishes outside the top four.

The bookies' favourite is quoted as evens to triumph in Sunday's race.

His nearest rival, Eddie Irvine is 7-1 with bookmakers Ladbrokes, while Michael Schumacher, returning from an injury lay-off, is 3-1.

Significantly, rain is forecast for Saturday's qualifying session and possible showers are predicted for Sunday.

Ladbrokes believe this could favour the German - despite his pledge to help Eddie Irvine's title bid - and also championship hopeful Heinz-Harald Frentzen, quoted at 7-1.

Title outsider David Coulthard, who's race plans could also be hit by team orders, is 11-2.

A spokesman for the bookmaker said, 'We think the inclusion of (Michael) Schumacher will bring more attention.

'If it rains he should definitely be backed.

'Hakkinen, Schumacher and Frentzen is where the main money should be coming in.'

Ambitious punters may wish to back British hero Damon Hill at 50-1.

Meanwhile, the European Grand Prix winner, Johnny Herbert, is 80-1.

Anyone wishing to back Marc Gene, Luca Badoer, Pedro de la Rosa or Tora Takagi, will be offered odds of 1000-1.