Formula 1 (F1) drivers were not the only ones racing during the Free Practice 3 (FP3) session on the second day of the Singapore F1 Grand Prix. On 21 September, a monitor lizard surprised drivers and caused the session to be red-flagged, halting all activities on the track until the invader was removed. This marks the third year the reptile has been spotted at the annual race, with previous sightings in 2016 and 2023.
Background
The unexpected appearance of the monitor lizard during the FP3 session is not an isolated incident. The Singapore Grand Prix has seen similar disruptions in the past, with the first recorded lizard sighting in 2016 and another just last year. These interruptions highlight the unique challenges of hosting a race in an urban environment where wildlife encounters are possible.
Red light
According to an Instagram post by F1, a driver alerted engineers via radio that the lizard was in the “middle of the track”. In a video filmed by a Fathership reader, two traffic marshals, one armed with a plastic bag, can be seen running after the lizard. VCARB driver Daniel Riccardo was also captured smiling at the lizard chase, adding a touch of humour to the unexpected situation.
Successfully chased away
At about 5:46 pm, the official F1 account posted on X that a green flag had been raised after the lizard was successfully chased off the track. The racetracks were then left to the actual drivers, allowing the session to resume without further interruptions.
More track invaders
The monitor lizard’s appearance is part of a recurring theme at the Singapore Grand Prix. In previous years, other wildlife, including birds and smaller reptiles, have also made their way onto the track, causing brief disruptions. These incidents serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of live events and the importance of quick responses from track officials to ensure the safety of both drivers and animals.
Future implications
The recurring presence of wildlife at the Singapore Grand Prix raises questions about the measures in place to prevent such incidents. While the occasional appearance of a lizard adds an element of unpredictability and amusement, it also poses potential safety risks. Moving forward, organisers may need to consider additional precautions to minimise these encounters, ensuring a smoother and safer experience for all involved.
