:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Lewis-Hamilton-of-Great-Britain-and-Scuderia-Ferrari-during-the-press-conference-061625-60ddffd023ff406eae2fc0e50145317e.jpg)
Lewis Hamilton, the 40-year-old British Formula One driver, was left devastated after running over a groundhog during the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal on Sunday, June 15.
Hamilton, a vegan and well-known animal lover, said he was "so sad" about the incident, which occurred on the 13th lap of the race. "I love animals, so I'm so sad about it," he added.
The incident, which was reported by Sky Sports, BBC, and ESPN, resulted in a hole in the floor of Hamilton's car, adding to his difficulties for the remainder of the race. The driver's crew estimated that the damage cost him roughly half-a-second per lap for the rest of the race, which he ultimately finished in sixth place.
Hamilton said he didn't see the groundhog on the road but heard it when he hit it. "I just hope it didn't suffer," he added.
Groundhogs are reportedly commonplace around the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve track in Montreal, where the Canadian Grand Prix takes place. According to CBC, the animals have been increasingly nesting in more urban areas in recent years.
Incidents involving groundhogs have happened numerous times over the years at the track, according to ESPN.
Meanwhile, in other celebrity news, Justin Bieber has opened up about his trauma and anger issues, and Love Hotel finale has revealed which men the ladies chose.
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Read more: Entertainment, Sports