Formula 1's "Weirdest Red Flag Ever": Lizard Halts Singapore Grand Prix Practice

The third and final practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix was interrupted by an unexpected visitor: a lizard. The bizarre incident led to a red flag and provided plenty of amusement for drivers and fans alike.

Formula 1 witnessed an unprecedented spectacle during the final practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix on Saturday. A large lizard made its way onto the Marina Bay Street Circuit, causing a red flag and a flurry of activity among race control and marshals.

The unusual incident unfolded when Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso reported seeing the lizard on the track over the radio. Race control promptly suspended the session, allowing marshals to remove the reptile from the path of the high-speed racing cars.

Formula 1's "Weirdest Red Flag Ever": Lizard Halts Singapore Grand Prix Practice

Two marshals were dispatched to retrieve the lizard. One was equipped with a plastic bag to try and scoop up the creature, but the lizard proved to be evasive. It darted away from the marshals, dodging their attempts to catch it.

Red Bull racer Daniel Ricciardo couldn't help but chuckle at the scene unfolding before him. The situation sparked amused commentary from the broadcasters, who joked about the lizard's "day" and its impressive agility.

Formula 1's "Weirdest Red Flag Ever": Lizard Halts Singapore Grand Prix Practice

After a brief but entertaining chase, the elusive lizard was finally apprehended and removed from the course. Action resumed shortly after the unexpected delay.

Lizards are known to frequent the island of Singapore, particularly during warmer months. The heat generated by the asphalt on the track makes it an attractive spot for these reptiles.

Formula 1's "Weirdest Red Flag Ever": Lizard Halts Singapore Grand Prix Practice

This was not the first time a lizard has disrupted Formula 1 practice in Singapore. Back in 2016, a similar incident occurred during final practice, with the reptile earning the nickname "Godzilla" from Max Verstappen's race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase.

Qualifying for the Singapore Grand Prix is scheduled for later Saturday, with the race taking place on Sunday. The lizard incident has added a lighthearted note to the pre-race proceedings, providing a moment of amusement amid the high-stakes competition.

In a sport where speed and precision are paramount, the unexpected appearance of a lizard on the track served as a reminder that even the most meticulously planned events can be subject to the whims of nature.