There was even talk of Niki Lauda attending the 2018 Formula 1 season in Abu Dhabi last year, but this was so way off the mark that it is now laughable as the legend will not be Barcelona for the preseason tests or at the season opener in Australia on 17 March.
Indeed predicting Lauda's return to the paddock anytime soon is pure speculation as he battles to recover from his death-defying lung transplant in August last year.
But any expectations of a swift return to the F1 paddock were dispelled by friend and foe Red Bull consultant Helmut Marko who told RTL, "The six-month stay in the hospital took a heavy toll on Niki."
"Patience is needed because he still has a long way to go. Lauda will support his team by phone," revealed Marko with reference to the triple F1 World Champion's role as chairman of the Mercedes team.
Late last year Silver Arrows boss Toto Wolff said, “I don’t doubt he’ll come back. That will definitely happen. That’s why I’m looking forward to walking this path together again."
But was quick to add, "Only the doctors and Niki make announcements about that. Preferably I’d like to see him back at the season opener in Australia, but his health has the priority.”
https://www.grandprix247.com/2018/11/24/lauada-message-to-my-team-and-my-friends/
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