Niki Lauda: Lewis Hamilton posts emotional tribute to late F1 legend

Lewis Hamilton has posted an emotional tribute to late Formula One legend Niki Lauda, who died aged 70 on Tuesday.

Lauda, who had twice had a kidney transplant, "passed away peacefully" according to a statement from his family, reported by the Austria Press Agency.

Five-time world champion Hamilton had enjoyed a close relationship with Lauda in their six years together at Mercedes.

And the 34-year-old paid tribute to Lauda following his death, posting a poignant image of the two after winning the world championship in 2018.

"I’m struggling to believe you are gone," Hamilton tweeted via his official Twitter account.

"I will miss our conversations, our laughs, the big hugs after winning races together. 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."

Tributes from all around the motor racing world poured in for the Austrian, who was labelled a "legend" by former world champion Jenson Button.

He tweeted: "A legend has left us. Rest in peace Niki."

The former F1 driver narrowly escaped death in 1976 when he was trapped in a fireball inferno after crashing at the German Grand Prix. But Lauda made a miracle recovery and went on to win two of his three world championship titles.

His family said: "With deep sadness, we announce that our beloved Niki has peacefully passed away with his family on Monday.

"His unique achievements as an athlete and entrepreneur are and will remain unforgettable, his tireless zest for action, his straightforwardness and his courage remain."