Lewis Hamilton has sadly confirmed the passing of his beloved bulldog, Roscoe, following a battle with pneumonia.
The seven-time Formula 1 world champion shared the news in an emotional social media post, revealing that Roscoe died in his arms on Sunday evening after four days on life support.
Hamilton, 40, had recently withdrawn from a Pirelli tyre test to remain by his side in hospital. The Ferrari driver had already told fans that Roscoe, who had been placed in a coma, was unlikely to wake up.
In a heartfelt message to his 40 million Instagram followers, Hamilton wrote: “After four days on life support, fighting with every bit of strength he had, I had to make the hardest decision of my life and say goodbye to Roscoe. He never stopped fighting, right until the very end.
“I feel so grateful and honoured to have shared my life with such a beautiful soul, an angel and true friend. Bringing Roscoe into my life was the best decision I ever made, and I will forever cherish the memories we created together.”
The post added that Roscoe died “on Sunday evening, 28th September, in my arms.”
Hamilton also reflected on the pain of losing a pet, drawing parallels with those who have faced the same grief: “Although I lost Coco, I have never been faced with putting a dog to sleep before, though I know my mum and many close friends have. It is one of the most painful experiences and I feel a deep connection to everyone who has gone through the loss of a beloved pet.
“Although it was so hard, having him was one of the most beautiful parts of life, to love so deeply and to be loved in return.”
Roscoe: Hamilton’s Constant Companion
Roscoe had been part of Hamilton’s life since 2013 and was a familiar face both in and out of the Formula 1 paddock. The bulldog was cared for by trainer Kirstin McMillan during race weekends, but Hamilton often brought him trackside, including at this year’s British Grand Prix.
Speaking earlier this year, Hamilton admitted he was treasuring every moment with his dog, who had already lived beyond the average life expectancy for the breed.
“He’s 12-and-a-half years old, so he’s an old boy,” Hamilton said in May, per The Independent. “He had pneumonia, but he’s fine now. But definitely, this is a time where every time I get a text message from the lady who’s looking after him, my heart stops for a second. You know, what’s next?
“I really want to try and bring him to Silverstone and take him to Monza and cheer him up.”
Roscoe’s presence wasn’t limited to race weekends. The bulldog became something of a celebrity in his own right, amassing over 1.3 million Instagram followers. Fans around the world often commented on his playful photos, travel snaps, and paddock appearances alongside Hamilton. Now, their pages have been flooded with emotional tributes from fans.
This is the second time Hamilton has endured the heartbreak of losing a pet, after his other dog, Coco, passed away five years ago. Roscoe, however, became a truly global companion — a fixture in the champion’s personal life, his travels, and even his brand image.
Hamilton closed his tribute with gratitude to those who had followed Roscoe’s journey, telling fans: “Thank you all for the love and support you’ve shown Roscoe over the years. It has been so special to witness and feel.”
Hamilton is currently expected to return to action with Ferrari at the Singapore Grand Prix this weekend, after prioritising Roscoe’s care and missing the Pirelli test in Italy. For fans, though, the absence of his loyal bulldog in the paddock will be keenly felt. Additionally, the F1 star may choose to pass a return to action.
Our thoughts go out to Hamilton, as well as his family and loved ones, at this time.
Featured image credit: Instagram/LewisHamilton
