Malaysian Grand Prix 1999 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Eddie Irvine won the inaugural Malaysian Grand Prix at the spectacular new Sepang circuit, keeping his championship hopes alive going into the season finale. Michael Schumacher returned from injury to finish second, waving Irvine through in the closing laps to maximize the Ulsterman's championship points. Mika Häkkinen could only manage third after struggling in the intense heat and humidity.

Schumacher's return after missing six races was remarkable, with the German immediately showing race-winning pace despite not being fully fit. His decision to gift Irvine the victory demonstrated Ferrari's commitment to Irvine's title challenge. The result set up a dramatic season finale at Suzuka, with Häkkinen leading Irvine by just two points heading to Japan.