Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton made his first public appearance in the Singapore Grand Prix paddock on October 2 following the recent passing of his beloved bulldog, Roscoe. The Briton has been openly mourning the loss of his companion, sharing moments of grief and remembrance on social media in the days leading up to the race. The deeply personal loss has resonated widely, highlighting the special bond between Hamilton and his pet amid his busy racing schedule.
Health Challenges Faced by Roscoe Before His Passing
Hamilton’s bulldog Roscoe had been struggling with pneumonia, a condition he battled more than once in 2023. On September 26, Hamilton shared a poignant Instagram post showing him at a veterinary clinic with Roscoe, who was receiving urgent care. The dog had been diagnosed with pneumonia earlier in April and had relapsed, leading to a serious health scare. During tests, Roscoe’s heart temporarily stopped, but veterinarians managed to revive him and placed him in an induced coma to aid recovery.
Despite medical efforts over several days, including life support, Roscoe’s condition remained critical. After four days of fighting, Hamilton made the difficult decision to euthanize Roscoe after more than ten years together. The loss deeply impacted Hamilton, who had previously shared many joyful moments with his bulldog online.
Hamilton’s Emotional Return and Connection with Fans
When Lewis Hamilton returned to the paddock days after Roscoe’s death, fans and colleagues welcomed him warmly amid visible signs of mourning. Social media captured the 40-year-old Ferrari driver engaging with fans, signing merchandise, and exchanging fist bumps, demonstrating both his professionalism and vulnerability. Roscoe himself had become a well-known presence in the F1 community, boasting over 1.3 million followers on Instagram and regularly appearing alongside Hamilton during race weekends.
The overwhelming support Hamilton received after announcing Roscoe’s death extended beyond fans to many in the F1 community. Fellow drivers, team members, and officials expressed sympathy, reflecting the widespread affection for both Hamilton and his pet. The empathy shared online underlined the universal experience of losing a cherished companion.
Hamilton Shares Thoughts on Losing Roscoe and Moving Forward
Reflecting on the flood of messages and condolences he received globally, Hamilton admitted the response was “quite overwhelming,” highlighting the deep connection many felt with Roscoe’s story. In an emotional statement shared via F1 journalist Adam Cooper, Hamilton said:
“Lots of messages. Quite overwhelming to be honest, to see just how many people Roscoe touched around the world. And really heart warming to receive. I’ve not been able to reply to everybody. It was the most important thing in my life, so it was a very difficult experience..” — Lewis Hamilton, F1 Driver
“And I know so many people in the world have gone through it, and know what it’s like to have a pet that’s just that gives you such amazing love, and it’s an amazing experience. I’m really just looking forward to now just getting back in the car and doing what I love doing here,” he added — Lewis Hamilton, F1 Driver
At 12 years old, Roscoe had been part of Hamilton’s life during much of his illustrious racing career. The grief Hamilton has shown publicly resonates with many, emphasizing the profound role that pets play in personal wellbeing, even amid the high-pressure world of motorsport.
The Significance of Roscoe’s Presence in Hamilton’s Career
Roscoe was more than just a pet; he was a constant companion who often accompanied Hamilton to races. Their bond symbolized a source of comfort and joy in the demanding environment of Formula 1. Roscoe’s recognizable presence, combined with his Instagram popularity, helped humanize the driver and offered fans insight into Hamilton’s personal life beyond the track.
Returning to the paddock after such a loss signals Hamilton’s resilience and dedication to his sport, but also his willingness to acknowledge personal grief publicly. This openness enhances his connection with fans and peers alike, showing that even champions face difficult moments. As Hamilton refocuses on racing, the memory of Roscoe remains a poignant part of his journey, reflecting the emotional depth behind the competitive battles on the circuit.
Lewis in the paddock today @FloraLewis0203 🤗#SingaporeGP pic.twitter.com/bXXMiFi5kz
— Sir Lewis Updates (@LH44updates) October 2, 2025
