Niki Lauda has a heartfelt word for his team and his fans

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Mercedes non-executive chairman Niki Lauda sent out a video message to his team and his fans, saying he would "soon" be back on deck to help the Silver Arrows squad coquer its sixth title.

Lauda was suddenly forced to under a lung transplant last summer, and while the surgery was successful, it's been a prolonged convalescence period for the Austrian.

There was speculation the three-time F1 world champion could be possibly return to the paddock in Abu Dhabi, but Lauda and his doctors wisely thought the better of it.

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However, in a video posted by Mercedes on social media, the 69-year-old expressed his gratitude for the "unbelievable" support provided by his team and his fans in the last few months.

"As you all know I had a rough time from my health point of view and the support I got from all you people on my way was unbelievable," he said. "And I was out of bed quicker because I felt to be home in a big strong family of friends.

"Therefore the achievement of this year – outstanding – five championships in a row, Lewis again, Bottas right there, we could not have done a better job.

"And now the important message is that I will be there soon and off we go, off we go – the pressure comes for the sixth time. Thank you very much."

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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.