Lauda on the 'right path' - Wolff

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff says Niki Lauda is on the "right path" in his recovery from lung surgery, with the Formula 1 legend's sharp tongue proof of his recovery. Lauda has been hospitalised for the last six weeks after undergoing a lung transplant.

Lauda remains in intensive care and is not expected to return to the paddock in 2018.

The 69-year-old fell ill while on holiday in Ibiza and came within days of dying when he was taken to hospital back in Vienna.

His brother recently revealed that the 'old Niki' was returning and Wolff's recollection of a recent visit to the Silver Arrows' non-executive chairman suggests that he is getting back to his best form.

"I was very worried to see him after his gigantic operation," Wolff said.

"I went in and the first thing he did was smile. I thought I should continue where we left off and I said 'You've looked better'.

"He mouthed 'asshole' to me and I knew then that Niki is on the right path!"

Have heard from someone who visited him that Niki Lauda is on the mend, swearing at people and being a general pain in the butt to his nurses! Great stuff. See you soon Niki. — Mark Hughes (@SportmphMark) September 15, 2018

MORE: Niki Lauda's family offer update on health after lung transplant