Irvine hopes dealt further blow

The double world champion, who broke his leg in the British Grand Prix, had tested his Ferrari last week, but the Italian team's bosses said there was only a 50 per cent chance he would start in next Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix.

Ulsterman Irvine is currently two points behind championship leader Mika Hakkinen, but has struggled to keep momentum in the recent races.

He told German newspaper Bild, 'I can become world champion but only with Michael's help.'

However, Ferrari president Luca di Montezemelo remained pessimistic about Schumacher's return in time for next week's Malaysian race.

'I have spoken with Michael and the chances that he will start in Malaysia stand at about 50%,' said di Montezemelo.

'But he can hardly expect it to get any better and nor do I. The pin in his right leg is causing him problems. It is pressing on the nerve and causing him pain.'