Three-time Formula 1 champion Niki Lauda will remain in the Vienna hospital as he recovers from the lung transplant surgery last week as per the latest update.

The 69-year-old was admitted to the Vienna General Hospital with a severe flu last month while he was reportedly holidaying in Ibiza. His condition worsened and he was in need of a lung transplant then after.

The surgery was successfully performed by Walter Klepetko, Head of the Clinical Department of Thoracic Surgery, and Konrad Hotzenecker on August 2. Mercedes’ Toto Wolff also wished their non-executive chairman a speedy recovery.

As per latest update from the hospital, the Austrian was already able to breathe without any trouble and also support 24 hours after the transplant. It adds, he is showing ‘continuous improvement’, but will still remain in the hospital until full recovery.

“The AKH Vienna and the MedUni Vienna are pleased about the very satisfactory course after the lung transplantation on August 2. Already 24 hours after the operation, Niki Lauda was fully conscious that he could be extubated and breathe independently. 

“Since then there has been a continuous improvement, all organs are working well. The patient [Lauda] will continue to be cared for until full recovery at the AKH Vienna,” the statement added.