Lewis Hamilton, the Ferrari Formula 1 driver, has publicly expressed his tribute to renowned animal rights activist Jane Goodall following her death on October 1, 2025. Hamilton acknowledged Goodall’s lifelong dedication to primatology and conservation, highlighting her profound impact in the field of animal welfare.
Jane Goodall, born on April 3, 1934, passed away at the age of 91. She was widely celebrated for her pioneering studies of chimpanzee behavior, having devoted over six decades to understanding their social structures and family dynamics. Goodall also founded the Jane Goodall Institute and served on the board of the Nonhuman Rights Project, an American nonprofit focused on animal rights, from 2022 until her death.
Amid his own recent loss of his beloved bulldog Roscoe, Hamilton turned to social media to honor Goodall’s legacy. He shared a tribute on Instagram, accompanied by a post from the BBC, and wrote:
“RIP. Thank you for your incredible work.”
— Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Formula 1 driver
Hamilton’s emotional message arrives during a difficult time for the British world champion, who had to say goodbye to Roscoe after a long battle on life support. The connection between Hamilton and animals remains a significant part of his public and personal life as he prepares for the upcoming 2025 Singapore Grand Prix at the Marina Bay Street Circuit.
Lewis Hamilton’s Heartfelt Farewell to His Bulldog Roscoe
A few days before paying tribute to Jane Goodall, Hamilton opened up about the loss of Roscoe. The seven-time Formula 1 world champion shared an emotional Instagram post explaining the painful decision to let his dog go after four days on life support. 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.”
— Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Formula 1 driver
“Bringing Roscoe into my life was the best decision I ever made, and I will forever cherish the memories we created together. 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.”
— Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Formula 1 driver
Roscoe was a familiar face in the Formula 1 paddock, often seen accompanying Hamilton during race weekends, including the 2025 British Grand Prix. The bulldog was beloved by fans and became a popular presence within the Ferrari team’s motorhome, frequently featured on social media.
Jane Goodall’s Enduring Impact on Animal Rights and Conservation
Jane Goodall’s influence extends far beyond her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees. Her work reshaped the understanding of primates, emphasizing their complex social lives and emotional depth. As founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, she championed wildlife conservation and environmental education worldwide.
Her commitment to animal welfare was also reflected by her involvement with the Nonhuman Rights Project, where she worked on advancing legal protections for nonhuman animals until her passing this year. Goodall’s legacy continues to inspire activists, scientists, and public figures like Hamilton who hold animal rights close to their hearts.
Looking Ahead: Hamilton’s Upcoming Race and Continuing Advocacy
As Lewis Hamilton prepares for the Singapore Grand Prix, he carries forward the dual weight of recent personal sorrow and profound respect for trailblazers such as Jane Goodall. His public acknowledgments reflect a growing awareness and advocacy for animal rights within the world of motorsport and beyond.
The loss of both Goodall and Roscoe marks a poignant moment for Hamilton, deepening his connection to animal welfare causes and setting a tone of remembrance and determination ahead of the 2025 racing season’s next key event.
