Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has shared a distressing health update about his dog, Roscoe, after missing Pirelli’s tire testing at the Mugello circuit in Italy on September 26. The update, which came amid fans’ growing concern, detailed the seriousness of Roscoe’s condition and explained why Hamilton chose to stay by his side.
Roscoe’s Health Crisis Deepens
Hamilton, who was scheduled to drive a Ferrari at the Pirelli event, posted on Instagram that Roscoe had been hospitalized with pneumonia, struggling to breathe once again. The dog was sedated to allow medical staff to perform checks, during which time his heart stopped. Fortunately, the medical team was able to restart his heartbeat, but Roscoe remains in a coma.
Hamilton shared:
“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.”
This plea came after what Hamilton described as a “scary few hours” on Wednesday, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Replacement at Pirelli Tire Test Due to Roscoe’s Condition
With Hamilton absent from the track, Ferrari called upon reserve driver Zhou Guanyu to take his place alongside Charles Leclerc in the SF-25 mule car as part of Pirelli’s tire development for the 2026 season. Zhou, who left the F1 grid at the end of last year after racing for Sauber, was already at Mugello, having participated in a previous car test with Leclerc’s younger brother, Arthur.
The Mugello venue also hosted the American Haas team’s involvement, which saw former driver Romain Grosjean return in F1 machinery for the first time since his dramatic crash during the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix. Joining Grosjean was James Hinchcliffe, an F1TV analyst and former IndyCar race winner. Grosjean’s presence marked a significant comeback, recalling his miraculous escape from a severe incident involving Daniil Kvyat.
The testing session on Thursday also included Haas’s regular drivers, Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman, although their efforts were hampered by rain in the afternoon, limiting track time.
Significance and Future Implications
Hamilton’s decision to prioritize his dog’s health underscores the deep bond between sports figures and their pets, which resonates with fans worldwide. Roscoe has become a familiar presence in the Formula 1 paddock, capturing the hearts of followers through numerous photos and appearances alongside Hamilton.
The current situation remains uncertain about Roscoe’s recovery, leaving supporters hoping for positive news. Meanwhile, Pirelli’s ongoing tire testing at Mugello highlights the continuous advancements preparing teams for the 2026 F1 season, with new drivers stepping up amid unexpected changes.
The health scare has temporarily altered Ferrari’s testing plans but also provides a platform for younger and reserve drivers like Zhou Guanyu to demonstrate their capabilities. As F1 progresses through a transformative period with developments both on and off the circuit, moments such as these bring personal stories to the forefront amid the intense pace of competition.
