LEWIS HAMILTON has paid a heartfelt tribute to his former doctor Aki Hintsa, who has passed away at the age of 58.
Formula One world champion Hamilton said McLaren's former chief medical officer was "like family"'.
Hintsa, whose time at the manufacturer coincided with Hamilton's first world championship in 2008, had been battling cancer.
And writing on social media, Hamilton, victorious in last weekend's Brazil Grand Prix, said: "A friend, a mentor, and someone I consider to be family.
"Aki, you have left an incredible legacy that will live on forever within our sport, and our hearts.
"One of the strongest, most inspiring people I've ever had the pleasure of calling a friend.
"God bless you and watch over your loved ones. Thank you for everything, my friend.
"You've done so much more than you know for me, and many, many others.
"Much love, Lewis #RIPAki."
Hintsa joined McLaren in 1998 and became their top doctor during an 11-year spell with the British constructor.
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Dr Hintsa also worked closely with his Finnish compatriots Mika Hakkinen, the two-time world champion, and Kimi Raikkonen, now of Ferrari.
He made his last Formula One appearance at the Italian Grand Prix in September.
A McLaren statement read: "Undoubtedly, Aki played a crucial role within Lewis' inner circle during his time at McLaren, and it was often to Aki that Lewis would turn first in times of stress.
"Equally, no-one was more thrilled than Aki when Lewis won the 2008 world championship for McLaren with an overtaking move that has since passed into racing folklore."
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