Three-time world champion Niki Lauda is recovering well after a recent lung transplant operation, according to a statement released by Vienna General Hospital.
Lauda was not seen in the paddock in Hockenheim and Hungaroring after falling unwell and had to undergo the transplant procedure in his native Austria; doctors have said the cause of his illness was not linked to his notorious fiery crash in the German Grand Prix in 1976.
On Monday, the hospital in which Lauda is currently recovering issued a statement to provide a brief update.
The statement read: "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.
"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."
Lauda is the non-executive chairman within the Mercedes AMG Petronas Motorsport team and has been a regular feature within the paddock ever since he took on the role in 2012.
