Lewis Hamilton has been given permission to skip media duties on Wednesday in Monaco following the death of Niki Lauda, whom Hamilton had a close relationship with since joining Mercedes.
Three-time champion Lauda passed away this week at the age of 70 and hadn't been seen in the Formula 1 paddock since he underwent a double lung transplant last year.
Lauda was instrumental in luring Hamilton from McLaren to Mercedes and the pair have formed a close relationship since.
Hamilton paid tribute to the Austrian on social media, writing: "I will miss our conversations, our laughs, the big hugs after winning races together.
"It’s truly been an honour working alongside you over these past 7 years. I wouldn’t have even been in this team if it wasn’t for you.
"God rest your soul. Thank you for being a bright light in my life. I’ll always be here for your family should they ever need me.
"Love you man. Your friend always, Lewis."
Hamilton had been scheduled to take part in the FIA drivers' press conference in Monaco on Wednesday, but asked to be excused from all media duties, which the FIA and Mercedes both agreed to.
Valtteri Bottas took Hamilton's place alongside Charles Leclerc, Max Verstappen, Daniel Ricciardo and Robert Kubica.
