Lauda in recovery mode but doctors' orders mean big restrictions

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Niki Lauda's daily life will be impacted by heavy restrictions in the future - some temporary, some permanent - following the F1 legend's recent lung transplant.

The Mercedes non-executive chairman remains in Vienna's AKH intensive care unit and has started his lengthy recovery process, including physiotherapy, although a small crisis erupted late last week.

Austrian media has reported that Lauda's kidney had to be supported by a dialysis catheter, but his condition was quickly stabilized.

The 69-year-old's road to recovery unfortunately implies several big changes in the three-time world champion's everyday life.

Doctors explain why Lauda was 'days away from death'

In addition to obvious dietary imperatives, Lauda is submitted to a complete air travel restriction for at least six months, while his doctors have advised him to holiday in "neighboring countries" in order to remain close to home in the event of a medical emergency.

Furthermore, the Austrian gets a "life-long ban on public swimming pools, saunas and spas" while "all plants must be removed" from his living quarters and he must avoid contact with animals in the future.

How the restrictions may impact his duties with Mercedes and airline Laudamotion is unknown at this stage, but its likely Lauda will no longer be seen in the F1 paddock this season.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.