Mercedes release official statement regarding Niki Lauda’s health

Niki Lauda has left the Vienna hospital post a successful lung transplant that took place in early August, after being rushed to the hospital post a family vacation in Ibiza.

The doctors had confirmed that the surgery went through well, but Lauda would need a few months to return to full fitness, as recuperating from a lung transplant does take a long time.

Lauda has been in the Vienna hospital ever since that transplant and has been discharged only today.

While it still will be several weeks until he can make a public appearance, the entire F1 fraternity would take heart from the fact that Lauda is well and has been discharged from the hospital.

Mercedes posted a brilliant message for Lauda, confirming that he will be under intensive rehabilitation now before he can start doing what he loves most; live and work around F1.

“Two and a half months after a lung transplant, we’re delighted to hear that our Chairman and friend Niki Lauda has left hospital in Vienna. Niki will now begin a phase of intensive rehabilitation, as he continues his road to recovery. We can’t wait to have you back, Niki.” Mercedes said.

Hamilton spoke about a phone call with Lauda during the US GP weekend. He confirmed that Lauda’s voice seemed healthy and he was desperate to get back to work.

“I was shocked to hear from him,” said Hamilton.

“I told him ‘you sound younger than ever’. He is determined to come back and he is grateful to the doctors for all their good work and to his wife.

“For sure, I’ll be in Vienna to visit him before the end of the season. We miss him here in the team, but we have his spirit with us at the races.” he added.