Lewis Hamilton Thanks Fans for ‘Overwhelming’ Support After Beloved Dog Roscoe’s Death

The seven-time Formula One world champion revealed it was the “hardest decision” of his life to put the 12-year-old dog to sleep on Sunday after Roscoe developed pneumonia.

Hamilton, speaking to reporters at the Marina Bay Circuit ahead of this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix, described the reaction from fans, fellow drivers, and Formula One teams as “quite overwhelming.” Thousands of messages of sympathy poured in on social media after Roscoe, a familiar presence in the paddock, died in Hamilton’s arms.

“It was quite overwhelming to be honest to see how many people were touched,” Hamilton said. “He was the most important thing in my life, so it was a very difficult experience.”

The British Ferrari driver had skipped a Formula One tyre test in Italy last week to remain by Roscoe’s side but has since rejoined his team for the Singapore race.

Since being adopted by Hamilton in 2013, Roscoe had become a regular and much-loved figure at Formula One events and awards ceremonies.