Lizard Interruption Halts F1 Practice at Singapore Grand Prix

Sports have seen their fair share of animal intrusions, from dogs on soccer pitches to cats at NFL games. However, an unusual incident occurred during the final practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix when a lizard made its unexpected appearance on the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

As cars sped past at high speeds, the adventurous reptile wandered onto the track, seemingly unfazed by the racing action. To ensure the safety of both the drivers and the lizard, officials promptly red-flagged the session, requiring all drivers to return to the pitlane while the curious creature was escorted off the track.

The Formula One X account humorously referred to the situation as the “weirdest red flag ever.” Many drivers were visibly puzzled by the interruption. Mercedes driver George Russell, clearly taken aback, asked, “What on earth is that thing?!” When his engineers informed him it was a lizard, he responded incredulously, “A what?! It looks like a dragon!”

As the drivers settled in the pitlane, it was left to the marshals to handle the reptilian intruder. Two marshals, one equipped with a plastic bag, found themselves in the quirky position of chasing the lizard down the track as it darted away. This surreal scene drew laughter from those present, including RB driver Daniel Ricciardo, who was seen chuckling at the footage on display.

The F1 X account captured the absurdity perfectly, stating, “Things are getting surreal.” After a brief delay, the lizard was finally cleared from the circuit, allowing the practice session to resume.

Interestingly, this wasn’t the first lizard encounter at the Singapore Grand Prix. Back in 2016, Max Verstappen humorously recounted a run-in with a “giant lizard” during a practice session, which quickly scurried off the track, much to his amusement.

The incident highlights the unexpected moments that can arise in the high-octane world of Formula One, reminding fans that even amidst intense competition, nature can make its presence felt in the most surprising ways.