Hamilton pulls out of Pirelli test amid Roscoe’s health battle

©Ferrari

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Lewis Hamilton has withdrawn from Ferrari’s scheduled Pirelli tyre test at Mugello on Friday, a decision believed to be tied to the critical condition of his beloved bulldog, Roscoe.

Hamilton was due to join Charles Leclerc in Ferrari’s programme to help Pirelli prepare its 2026 tyre range, but his spot has been filled by reserve driver Zhou Guanyu.

While Ferrari has not disclosed a reason, Hamilton’s recent updates about Roscoe suggest the Briton is prioritising time at his dog’s side.

Earlier this week, Hamilton revealed on social media that Roscoe had suffered a serious health scare.

“Please keep Roscoe in your thoughts. I want to keep you all updated,” he wrote.

“Roscoe caught pneumonia again and was struggling to breathe. He was admitted into hospital and sedated to calm him while they did checks on him and during the process his heart stopped.

“They managed to get a heartbeat back and now he’s in a coma. We don’t know whether he will wake from this.”

The seven-time champion’s call for “thoughts and prayers” has been met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow drivers alike.

A Loyal Companion in the Paddock

Roscoe has been far more than a pet; he has been Hamilton’s constant companion for more than a decade, travelling with him to Grands Prix across the globe.

The bulldog has often been spotted in the paddock, trotting alongside his owner during race weekends, winning hearts with his signature presence and providing Hamilton with comfort during the highs and lows of Formula 1.

©LewisHamilton

While Hamilton’s place at Mugello has been taken by Zhou, the Briton is expected to return behind the wheel at next weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix, where he will continue his pursuit of a first podium in Ferrari red.

For now, however, the racing takes a back seat. As Hamilton remains by Roscoe’s side, fans and colleagues alike will be hoping for a miracle recovery for one of Formula 1’s most recognisable four-legged figures.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.