Formula 1 legend Lewis Hamilton announced the death of his English bulldog Roscoe, adopted in 2013, on Sunday night (September 28) in London. The dog suffered a cardiac arrest due to pneumonia and was in a coma on life support for four days. Hamilton, now racing for Ferrari, made the heart-wrenching decision to turn off the life support, holding Roscoe in his arms as he passed. The seven-time champion described the loss as one of the most painful experiences of his life.
Roscoe was a familiar face in the F1 paddock, especially at the British Grand Prix, where he charmed fans and photographers. His social media page, managed by Hamilton, boasted over one million followers.
- Joined Hamilton at races and training sessions.
- Participated in activities like acupuncture with the driver.
- Gained attention from celebrities, including singer Anitta.
Roscoe’s paddock presence
Roscoe became a paddock celebrity, drawing crowds at events like the British Grand Prix. His social media showcased moments from walks to therapy sessions, boosting his global popularity.
Fans and teams react
Roscoe’s passing sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans and F1 teams. Mercedes, Hamilton’s team from 2013 to 2024, shared a heartfelt message, noting Roscoe’s joy. The official Formula 1 account also honored him, calling him a “star in his own right.”
A painful farewell
Hamilton revealed the decision to let Roscoe go was agonizing, comparing it to losing his dog Coco in 2020. He thanked fans for their support during Roscoe’s hospitalization. The driver emphasized their deep bond, calling Roscoe a “true friend.” He noted the emotional weight of holding Roscoe as he passed. The loss underscores the profound impact pets have, even on public figures.
Roscoe’s lasting legacy
Roscoe was more than a mascot, bringing warmth to the high-stakes world of Formula 1. His charismatic presence in races and online left a lasting mark on fans worldwide.
Memorable moments
Before the 2021 Imola Grand Prix, Hamilton and Roscoe strolled the paddock, with the driver in pink. Recent posts showed them sharing red light therapy sessions, highlighting their close bond. Roscoe’s “human-like” behavior amused celebrities like Anitta, adding to his charm.
Reunited with Coco
Hamilton reflected that Roscoe is now with Coco, his bulldog who died in 2020 after a heart attack. He expressed gratitude for the unconditional love from both dogs, emphasizing their spiritual connection and the joy they brought to his life
