'Lauda to leave intensive care'

Niki Lauda's recovery from a lung transplant is recovering enough to see the three-time Formula 1 champion leave intensive care, according to reports in his native Austria. It is reported by Osterreich that Lauda has already been outside and breathed fresh air, while he will soon have recovered enough strength to be transferred to a rehabilitation clinic.

Mercedes' non-executive chairman was hospitalised after falling ill on holiday in Spain. It was later revealed that he had been days from death before doctors opted for surgery to save him.

Lauda has been in hospital for two months, but friends and family have delivered regular, positive updates on his condition.

Speaking in September, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said Lauda was "on the right path" after visiting him in hospital.

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According to Osterreich, Lauda is able to talk fluently again and his body has received the new organs well.

It is reported that the 69-year-old recently underwent a small operation, described as a "routine measure".

Lauda still requires long physical rehabilitation and it remains unknown if he will resume duties in the F1 paddock with Mercedes.

The Austrian was previously a regular fixture in the Silver Arrows' garage, but has not attended a race since this year's British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

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