Remembering Roscoe: A Tribute to Lewis Hamilton's Beloved Bulldog

Lewis Hamilton's beloved bulldog, Roscoe, has passed away at the age of 12 due to complications from pneumonia. Roscoe, who had amassed a devoted following of 1.4 million on Instagram, was a constant and cherished presence by the side of the seven-time Formula 1 champion, touching the hearts of many across the globe.

Why it matters:

Roscoe was more than just a pet; he became an integral part of Lewis Hamilton's public persona and a beloved figure within the F1 paddock. His presence offered a unique glimpse into the personal life of one of the sport's biggest stars, humanizing the demanding world of Formula 1 and fostering a strong connection with fans worldwide. His passing marks the end of an era for the F1 community, who watched him grow from a puppy to a dignified elder.

The Details:

• A Life of Travel and Fame: Adopted by Hamilton in 2013, Roscoe lived an extraordinary life, accompanying Hamilton on his global travels and becoming a familiar face at race weekends.
• Record-Breaking Celebrations: Roscoe was famously part of the celebrations at the 2020 Portuguese Grand Prix, when Hamilton achieved his record 92nd F1 victory, appearing in numerous photos from the milestone event.
• Official Paddock Access: Such was his renown, F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone personally granted Roscoe a paddock pass in 2013, making him an official, albeit furry, member of the F1 inner circle.
• Silverstone Ferrari Appearance: Roscoe made a memorable appearance at the British Grand Prix in July, walking out on stage with Hamilton to greet fans after the announcement of his owner's high-profile move to Ferrari for the 2025 season.
• Meeting Fellow F1 Royalty: In 2024, Roscoe met Charles Leclerc's popular sausage dog, Leo, in a much-anticipated encounter between the paddock's two most famous canine companions.
• A Lucrative Modeling Career: Beyond the track, Roscoe enjoyed a successful modeling career, reportedly earning up to $700 per day. Joining a modeling agency in 2018, he secured high-paying gigs, often out-earning human models.
• Hollywood Cameo: Roscoe even made a brief appearance in the upcoming F1 movie, starring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris, earning a mention in the end credits alongside the film's human stars.

The Big Picture:

Roscoe's journey from a rescue dog to an international celebrity highlights the profound impact pets can have, especially when associated with global figures. His consistent presence offered fans a heartwarming connection to Hamilton, transcending the competitive intensity of F1. He became a symbol of comfort and companionship, demonstrating that even the most high-stakes environments can make room for genuine affection.

What's next:

The outpouring of grief and support from drivers, teams, celebrities, and fans underscores Roscoe's unique status. F1's official social media channels appropriately dubbed him “a true star in his own right.” While Roscoe's physical presence will be missed, his legacy as the paddock's beloved mascot and a global canine icon will undoubtedly endure, forever remembered as a special part of Lewis Hamilton’s journey and the wider Formula 1 family.