Lewis Hamilton has opened-up on his experience with COVID-19, revealing the physical toll he endured due to the disease.
Having returned a positive test on 1 December, Hamilton missed the first race of his Formula 1 career at that week’s Sakhir Grand Prix, but says it wasn’t the only way the virus cost him.
“I’ve lost 6kg over the past two months, 4 of which I lost when I got Covid,” he wrote in an Instagram story.
“Starting from a low point in strength now, not fun but I’m determained [sic] to get my strength back to be 100% again. No pain no gain.”
During his absence, Hamilton’s Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff admitted he was “in bed and not feeling great”, while he was noticeably physically spent when he returned to the podium at the Abu Dhabi GP the week after.
Now a seven-time F1 driver’s champion, Hamilton has returned home to celebrate Christmas with his family, and followed-up his previous post with another urging readers to reach-out and support their friends and loved-ones amidst the ongoing pandemic.
“Christmas is going to look a little different this year and for many, it’s going to be [a] very difficult time,” he wrote. “It’s already been an incredibly challenging year for us all but now more than ever, we need to share love, positivity and support with one another.
“Please remember to check-in on your friends and loved ones during this period, and if you’re feeling lonely or find yourself struggling with your own mental health, please do not say [sic] silent.
“I’ve posted some great organisations who are there to help. Just pick up the phone and talk to them. You are not alone.
Samaritans: 116 123
CALM: 0800 58 58 58
YoungMinds: 0800 018 2138
ChildLine: 0800 1111
Or text SHOUT to: 85258
“Sending you all love and strength!”