Lewis Hamilton speaks at a press conference. File

Gulf Today Report

Lewis Hamilton has become synonymous with racing, either it is on or off the track. He is racing against ‘time’ itself to be fit for the season-ending Formula One finale in Abu Dhabi, having missed Bahrain GP after testing positive for COVID-19.

According to Mercedes chief Toto Wolff, the champion-elect is battling to recover from coronavirus and grace the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which bring down curtain on the F1 season.

The Austrian boss told reporters after Sunday's dramatic Sakhir Grand Prix, Hamilton's condition was improving every day.

But, he added, defending champion has to provide a negative report and fully fit to stake a claim as the for the Mercedes job.

Both Hamilton and Mercedes and have already wrapped up driver’s and constructor’s titles respectively with a dominant display throughout the year.

"If Lewis recovers - and he is getting better every day - and he is being considered COVID-free and negative then he will be fine," said Wolff.

"I think we need to see how well Lewis recovers."

"That's the most important - that he's well - and he says he's a bit better so he's made a big step. If the test is negative, it's his car and then, I am sure, he will drive a brilliant race. But, if the test in Abu Dhabi is positive, then George is in the car."

Wolff rejected suggestions that the prodigious Russell's dazzling display for Mercedes -- he looked certain to win the race until a pit-stop bungle and a puncture ended his challenge -- was a useful factor in negotiating a new contract with Hamilton.