Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, has spoken publicly for the first time following the death of his cherished dog Roscoe earlier this week. The Mercedes-turned-Ferrari driver revealed the difficult circumstances surrounding his pet bulldog’s illness and ultimate passing during the lead-up to the Singapore Grand Prix.
Roscoe had been battling pneumonia and was admitted to a hospital after struggling to breathe. Hamilton shared his anguish on social media, confirming that on Sunday, 28 September, he had to make the painful decision to put Roscoe to sleep, with the dog dying in his arms. This loss occurred in the middle of the 2025 F1 season, as Hamilton continues to face challenges with his new team.
Hamilton Reflects on the Outpouring of Support After Roscoe’s Death
At Thursday’s media session before the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, Hamilton appeared visibly emotional as he addressed questions about his dog’s passing. Speaking openly, he expressed how deeply moved he has been by the global response to his loss.
“It’s been amazing to see the support from so many people around the world,”
Hamilton said.
He described feeling overwhelmed by the amount of affection shown for Roscoe and how meaningful it has been during this difficult time.
“The kind messages that I have received have been really uplifting, so I am really grateful for that,”
he added.
Hamilton also shared a poignant reflection on grief, relating it to the bond shared between people and their pets.
Anyone out there that knows what it is like to lose a pet, you know how painful it is. I read somewhere that grief is the last act of love I think, and I am definitely feeling that.
— Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
Challenges on and off the Track Amid Transition to Ferrari
Since joining Ferrari after a highly successful 12-season stint with Mercedes, Hamilton has struggled with the transition and his performance in the Scuderia’s car. Throughout this first year racing for Ferrari, he has wrestled with doubt and sought to regain his confidence behind the wheel amid fierce competition.
Rather than focusing on the difficulties, Hamilton emphasized his desire to rediscover the joy that initially drew him to the sport. With just seven races remaining in the season, he conveyed a renewed focus on simply doing what he loves.
I’m really just looking forward to now just getting back in the car and doing what I love doing here.
— Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 Driver
As the 2025 championship unfolds, Hamilton’s efforts to secure his first podium finish with Ferrari remain a key storyline. Meanwhile, his openness about the personal pain caused by Roscoe’s loss adds a deeply human dimension to a driver often seen solely through his sporting achievements.
Roscoe forever ❤️ pic.twitter.com/GZtPxixm4V
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) October 2, 2025
