Three-times Formula 1 world champion Niki Lauda is “on his way to recovery” following his lung transplant last week.
A statement released by AKH Wien, the Vienna General Hospital where Lauda is being treated, said the 69-year-old had regained full consciousness within 24 hours of the operation last Thursday.“The Vienna General Hospital and the Medical University of Vienna are pleased to inform about the very satisfying clinical course of Mr Niki Lauda after his successful lung transplantation on August 2nd,” the hospital said in a statement.
“Already 24 hours after surgery Mr Lauda could be extubated, was spontaneously breathing and had full consciousness. During the following days his condition has further improved continuously and all organs are functioning well.
“Mr Lauda will stay at the Vienna General Hospital until his full recovery.”
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff says the team “can’t wait to have him back with us on the grand prix tracks of this world” following his absence from the German and Hungarian rounds.
“The recovery he now faces is not a race. But knowing Niki, I’m sure he will soon be telling every nurse and doctor that he has had enough of the hospital. We wish him a safe and speedy recovery – in that order – and send all our positive energy to him and his family.”
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petebaldwin (@)
7th August 2018, 10:14
Great news although as we all said when the news first broke, entirely expected. There is no-one on the planet tougher than Niki Lauda.
ColdFly (@)
7th August 2018, 10:15
Great news.
And I hope sensationalist commenters don’t link any speculative stories this time.
dan
7th August 2018, 10:20
What a legend, this man’s will survive is astounding, as tough as teak
DB-C90 (@dbradock)
7th August 2018, 11:04
Great news indeed. I hope he continues to listen to his medical professionals and takes time to recover fully.
Fudge Kobayashi (@)
7th August 2018, 12:01
Great news, Niki ‘say it like it is’ Lauda is sorely missed from post race media and the rest!
anon-e moss
7th August 2018, 12:07
Thank you Niki for keeping your fans updated on your progress. I hope to see you soon back at doing what you love.
Buffy
7th August 2018, 12:11
Good news. Wishing him all the best.
Wayne
7th August 2018, 15:27
Nicki lauda… Essence of legend…
lebesset
7th August 2018, 17:43
what’s german for tough cookie ?
Tango (@tango)
7th August 2018, 23:17
I believe it is “wie Nikki Lauda”
JMDan (@danmar)
10th August 2018, 6:06
Great news. Let’s hope he recovers fully quickly.