Former F1 doctor battling cancer - report

Former McLaren doctor Aki Hintsa is reportedly battling cancer.

The 56-year-old Finn stepped away from F1 at the end of 2013, although he continued to treat various current drivers at his clinic in Geneva.

Now, the Finnish newspaper Turun Sanomat reports that Dr Hintsa has begun a fight against cancer, after an abdominal tumour was diagnosed.

He has reportedly already started treatment, including chemotherapy, in a Geneva hospital, and correspondent Heikki Kulta said Hintsa is "optimistic".

Hintsa’s clinic has been contacted for comment.

Update : Spokesman confirms former McLaren doctor’s cancer

A spokesman has confirmed reports former McLaren doctor Aki Hintsa is battling cancer.

We reported earlier that the 56-year-old Finn, who stepped away from F1 at the end of 2013 to focus on his clinic in Geneva, was diagnosed with an abdominal tumour.

"Dr Aki Hintsa was diagnosed very recently with a malignant tumour in his upper abdomen," a spokesman for Hintsa Performance told us.

"Doctors have started comprehensive medical treatment and considering the circumstances Aki is doing well. He is in good spirits and has continued working to date.

"Aki will now focus on his family, recovery and prioritised workload. He is extremely grateful for the enormous support he has been receiving from the F1 paddock," the spokesman added.