Formula 1 isn't just about high-speed racing, it's also about the personalities who inhabit the paddock, including the furry companions of some of its stars. Although Lewis Hamilton's bulldog Roscoe has long been a fixture in the F1 paddock, reigning champion Max Verstappen has expressed concerns about the stress it could cause the beloved dog.
Verstappen's warning: 'It's not nice for a dog'
Verstappen, himself a pet parent with two Bengal cats, shared his thoughts on the paddock's bustling environment, cautioning against bringing pets into such an energetic setting.
“No, even if I had a dog, I wouldn't want the dog to come here [dans le paddock de la F1] because it's very stressful. Everyone wants to touch him, it's not nice for a dog,” Verstappen told Sportskeeda.
Roscoe, Hamilton's constant companion since 2013, is known for his vegan diet and frequent trips with the seven-time world champion. However, 2024 proved difficult for the 11-year-old bulldog, who encountered health problems despite Hamilton's meticulous care. Verstappen's remarks highlight concerns that the hustle and bustle of the paddock could be too overwhelming for pets.
Hamilton and Roscoe: On the way to Maranello
As Hamilton moves to Ferrari in 2025, he and Roscoe prepare to begin a new chapter. Hamilton is due to make his debut in red later this month, as the Scuderia prepares for a high-stakes season after finishing third in the 2024 Constructors' Championship.
Red Bull's Tactical Gain Following Manufacturers' Failure
While Verstappen secured his fourth Drivers' Championship in 2024, Red Bull's failure to clinch the Constructors' title provided a surprising advantage. Under the FIA Aerodynamic Test Allocation (ATA) system, teams finishing lower in the rankings receive more development resources. By finishing second, Red Bull gets 80% of the benchmark wind tunnel time in 2025, compared to the 70% they would have received as champions.
Verstappen himself recognized this unexpected advantage:
“We have, I guess, a positive aspect. We won the Drivers' Championship, we didn't win the Manufacturers' title, so we gained a little time in the wind tunnel. In a way, maybe it’s positive.”
With a seismic regulatory readjustment on the horizon in 2026, efficient use of these resources will be crucial. Red Bull, Ferrari and other top teams are already strategizing to dominate the next era of Formula 1.
Looking to the Future: Furry Friends and Futures in F1
As Hamilton prepares for his Ferrari debut and Verstappen aims for increased dominance, Roscoe may have to take a break from chaotic paddock life in favor of calmer days. As F1 enters a season full of competition, even its off-track dynamics—be it pets or regulations—promise intrigue and drama.
