Hamilton Allowed To Miss Press Conference Over Lauda Death

Lewis Hamilton was given special permission to miss Wednesday’s Drivers’ Press Conference in Monaco after the death of Niki Lauda. Mercedes’ chairman Lauda passed away on Monday and there have been widespread tributes to the three-time Formula 1 world champion.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said the team have lost “a guiding light” while Hamilton took to Twitter on Tuesday evening to give his thoughts on the man who brought him to Mercedes. He tweeted: “My buddy, I am struggling to believe you are gone. I will miss our conversations, our laughs, the big hugs after winning races together.

It’s truly been an honour working alongside you over these past seven years. I wouldn’t have even been in this team if it wasn’t for you. God rest your soul. “Thank you for being a bright light in my life. I’ll always be here for your family should they ever need me. Love you man. Your friend always, Lewis.” Hamilton was due to face the media on Wednesday but was replaced by team-mate Valtteri Bottas.