Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has announced the death of his beloved dog Roscoe, who passed away on Sunday, September 28, after four days on life support.
Hamilton shared the emotional news with fans, describing the pain of saying goodbye to his long-time companion as the hardest decision of his life.
“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,” he said.
“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 British driver, who often travelled with Roscoe to Formula 1 paddocks and featured him prominently on social media, said bringing the bulldog into his life was the best decision he ever made.
He added that the memories they shared would remain with him forever.
Hamilton also reflected on the painful experience of putting a pet to sleep, something he had never faced before.
“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,” he added.
“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.”
The Mercedes driver thanked fans for their support over the years, acknowledging the special bond many had formed with Roscoe.
“Thank you all for the love and support you’ve shown Roscoe over the years. It has been so special to witness and feel.”
According to The Athletic, Roscoe, the English Bulldog, became famous for his constant companionship with the Formula 1 champion.
On Friday, Hamilton said Roscoe had developed pneumonia and was struggling to breathe.
The dog was hospitalised and sedated for medical examination, during which his heart stopped.
"Please keep Roscoe in your thoughts. I want to keep you all updated. Roscoe caught pneumonia again and was struggling to breathe. He was admitted into the hospital and sedated to calm him while they did checks on him, and during the process, his heart stopped," he said on Friday.
"They managed to get a heartbeat back, and now he’s in a coma. We don’t know whether he will wake from this. Tomorrow we’ll try to wake him up. I’m by his side and want to thank you all for your prayers and support."
Ferrari confirmed that Hamilton had pulled out of Friday’s Pirelli tire test at Mugello to spend time with his dog.
Reserve driver Zhou Guanyu replaced Hamilton for the test alongside Charles Leclerc.
Roscoe became a celebrity pet, accumulating over 1.4 million followers on Instagram and frequently appearing at Formula 1 events.
Roscoe’s Instagram handle, “@roscoelovescoco,” served as a tribute to his sister, Coco, a fellow English Bulldog who passed away in 2020 due to heart problems.
