Lewis Hamilton Withdraws from Tyre Test Due to Dog’s Illness

Florence, Italy – Lewis Hamilton has withdrawn from a Pirelli tyre test after his dog, Roscoe, fell seriously ill. Hamilton was scheduled to participate in the test for the 2026 tyres at the Mugello Circuit on Friday but instead opted to stay with Roscoe, who was admitted to the hospital.

In a social media update, the seven-time Formula One World Champion informed fans that his 12-year-old bulldog is currently in a coma due to complications from pneumonia. Hamilton expressed his appreciation for the support he has received. “Please keep Roscoe in your thoughts. I want to keep you all updated,” he wrote.

According to Hamilton, Roscoe had been struggling to breathe and was sedated while doctors conducted tests. “During the process, his heart stopped. They managed to get a heartbeat back, and now he’s in a coma,” Hamilton explained. “We don’t know whether he will wake from this. Tomorrow we’ll try to wake him up.”

Hamilton, who adopted Roscoe in 2013, regularly shares moments with his dog on social media. Roscoe, known for his large following of 1.3 million fans, has been a familiar presence at many Grand Prix events by Hamilton’s side.

With Hamilton unable to attend, reserve driver Zhou Guanyu will take over his responsibilities during the tyre test alongside Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. The test aims to assist Pirelli in finalizing its tyre compounds for the upcoming season.

As fans rally behind Hamilton, his former teammate offered words of comfort, commenting, “Thinking of you mate.” Hamilton’s dedication to Roscoe reflects the strong bond they share, one that has been evident throughout Hamilton’s racing career.