Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton announced on Monday the devastating passing of his cherished English Bulldog, Roscoe, whom he adopted in 2013. The Ferrari driver revealed his grief on social media after Roscoe spent four agonizing days in a coma on life support before passing away on Sunday evening.
Roscoe had been admitted to a veterinary hospital the previous week due to pneumonia, which affected his breathing. Despite sedation and medical intervention, his heart stopped, though veterinarians were able to revive it temporarily. Hamilton faced the painful choice to end life support when Roscoe failed to regain consciousness.
Hamilton’s Emotional Farewell and Reflections on Roscoe’s Life
In a heartfelt message, Hamilton described making the decision to say goodbye to Roscoe as the most difficult moment of his life. He expressed profound gratitude for the years they shared and Roscoe’s unwavering spirit through his final days.
“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,”
Hamilton wrote on Instagram.
“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.”
Hamilton went on to highlight how bringing Roscoe into his life was one of his best decisions, making special memories that he will forever cherish. He acknowledged the pain of euthanizing a dog, a procedure unfamiliar to him, but one that many of his loved ones have experienced.
“Bringing Roscoe into my life was the best decision I ever made, and I will forever cherish the memories we created together,”
he said.
“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. Thank you all for the love and support you’ve shown Roscoe over the years. It has been so special to witness and feel. He died on Sunday evening, 28th September in my arms.”
Public Response and Roscoe’s Role in Hamilton’s Life and Career
Fans quickly shared their condolences and posted memorable photos of Roscoe alongside Hamilton, including iconic images of the bulldog in the Formula 1 paddock, where he was affectionately seen as part of the driver’s team. Social media buzzed with tributes that celebrated Roscoe’s unique personality and close bond with Hamilton.
“Rest in peace, Roscoe. Your iconic photos will live on forever,”
one fan tweeted in remembrance.
Roscoe had encountered health challenges earlier this year, recovering from a bout of pneumonia in April with a combination of antibiotics and acupuncture. His recent deterioration prompted Hamilton to withdraw from a Pirelli tire test at the Mugello circuit, choosing instead to remain by Roscoe’s side during his final days.
The Significance of Roscoe’s Passing for Lewis Hamilton and Pet Owners Alike
Roscoe’s death profoundly affected Lewis Hamilton, underscoring the deep emotional ties between pets and their owners, even those leading high-profile lives. The experience of losing a companion like Roscoe highlights the universal pain and difficult decisions pet parents face when confronting illness and end-of-life care.
Hamilton’s openness about his grief and the tough choices he made may offer comfort to others navigating similar losses, reaffirming the importance of cherishing the moments shared with loved pets. For now, Hamilton continues to honor Roscoe’s memory while reflecting on the companionship a beloved animal brings, both on and off the racetrack.
Lost my best friend last night. Thank you all for the love you’ve shown him over the years. Roscoe forever. pic.twitter.com/VRrFBdcsLc
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) September 29, 2025
https://twitter.com/LewisHamilton/status/1384909679231438850
Rest in peace, Roscoe. Your iconic photos will live on forever pic.twitter.com/bncCCZN42s
— Gaurav (@Melb0urne__82) September 29, 2025
