Formula One star Lewis Hamilton has announced the heartbreaking death of his dog Roscoe, who passed away on Sunday evening following a serious illness.

Hamilton, who had missed a scheduled Pirelli tyre test last week to remain at Roscoe’s side, shared the emotional news on social media on Monday. Roscoe had recently been admitted to hospital and placed in a coma after being diagnosed with pneumonia.

“After four days on life support, fighting with every bit of strength he had, I had to make the hardest decision of my life and say goodbye to Roscoe,” wrote Hamilton in a moving tribute. “He never stopped fighting, right until the very end.”

Roscoe, a popular figure among Hamilton’s fans and regularly seen accompanying the seven-time world champion at races and on social media, had become something of a celebrity in his own right.

“I feel so grateful and honoured to have shared my life with such a beautiful soul, an angel and true friend,” Hamilton wrote. “Bringing Roscoe into my life was the best decision I ever made, and I will forever cherish the memories we created together.”

Roscoe’s passing comes five years after the death of Hamilton’s other dog, Coco.