F1 cat that had own VIP pass to Grand Prix race weekends dies as heartbroken fans say ‘run free beautiful Imola kitty’

AN F1 cat that had its own VIP pass to Grand Prix race weekends has sadly passed away.

Heartbroken fans have left emotional tributes after Formulino's death was reported.

The cat lived at the Imola Circuit and was a regular at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in recent years.

Such was the animal's popularity, it even wore a VIP pass round its neck as it strolled around the paddock.

report, though, that Formulino has died, with one fan commenting on the news: "Run free beautiful Imola kitty."

Another wrote: "Rest in peace Formulino."

A third F1 fan added: "So sad, my daughter thought it was such a lovely story and was so jealous of the cat."

Meanwhile, one more said: "This made me so sad. RIP beautiful kitty, you will be missed at Imola."

Formulino also became something of a good luck charm for drivers after the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola was added to the F1 calendar in 2020.

However, the feline is alleged to have cursed Sebastian Vettel at the first edition of the race.

BETTING SPECIAL - BEST SPORTS BETTING APPS IN THE UK

He was told before the weekend that it is good luck if Formulino comes and sees you before the race.

"I don’t like cats," he replied. "I have nothing to offer it. He’s a bit overweight though, maybe because there hasn’t been much racing lately."

Vettel went on to qualify in 14th before finishing 12th in the race itself.

As for Lewis Hamilton, who was seen stroking the cat in the Mercedes garage, he claimed victory after starting in P3.

Fans and drivers missed out on the chance to see Formulino this year after the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix was cancelled back in May.

Heavy rainfall and flooding caused the race to be postponed, but it is set to return to the calendar in 2024.