Singapore Grand Prix practice red-flagged as marshals forced to chase…read more
The Singapore Grand Prix practice session took a humorous turn when it was temporarily halted due to an unexpected visitor: a lizard on the track. This happened during FP3 (Free Practice 3) on Saturday, with the session being red-flagged so marshals could remove the reptile. Remarkably, such incidents are not rare at the Singapore Grand Prix, where lizards have become a quirky and celebrated part of the event.
As the session began, Fernando Alonso was one of the first drivers on the track. However, his lap was cut short when his race engineer warned him of the lizard’s presence on the final corner of the circuit. Despite being informed that the track was clear, Alonso quickly spotted the creature and responded, “No, it’s in the middle of the track.” The red flag was immediately waved, signaling that the session had been paused to deal with the unusual obstacle.
A marshal then ventured onto the track to guide the lizard away, creating a scene that amused both drivers and fans alike. Daniel Ricciardo, who was watching from the VCARB garage, was caught on camera laughing at the situation, adding to the lighthearted atmosphere. The bizarre yet amusing scenario quickly became a talking point, particularly for fans who are familiar with such wildlife encounters during the Singapore Grand Prix.
In fact, the appearance of lizards on the track has become something of a tradition at this race. Over the years, these reptiles have been spotted multiple times, often causing brief disruptions to the proceedings. While it may seem unusual to outsiders, regular viewers and attendees of the Singapore GP have come to expect these wildlife sightings, adding a unique charm to the race weekend.
Aside from the reptilian interruption, Daniel Ricciardo’s future in Formula 1 was another hot topic in the paddock. Rumors have been swirling that the Australian driver could be replaced by rising star Liam Lawson after the Singapore Grand Prix, with speculation suggesting that Ricciardo’s seat might be up for grabs ahead of the United States Grand Prix.
Addressing the rumors in a press conference on Thursday, Ricciardo remained pragmatic about his position in the sport, acknowledging that nothing is certain in the fast-paced world of Formula 1. When asked if Singapore could be his last race, he said, “I don’t think so, but I also don’t want to stand here and be the lawyer.” Ricciardo admitted that while he doesn’t believe he will be replaced, he’s not ruling out the possibility, given the unpredictable nature of Formula 1.
“I would say no [it won’t be my last race], but we also know how this sport works and people have not seen through a season before, so it is nothing new,” Ricciardo explained. “But I don’t want to be like: ‘Oh, 100 per cent I’ll bet my house on it.’ I’ve been around too long. I really don’t know what is going to happen.”
Ricciardo, who is widely known for his charismatic personality and entertaining interviews, acknowledged the rapid changes that can happen in Formula 1, joking about how quickly opinions can shift in the sport. “What is crazy about this sport, and this is me talking a bit of s*** now, but if I go and get a podium this weekend, then I am probably the hottest thing in the sport,” he quipped.
He then reflected on the “merry-go-round” nature of Formula 1, where a driver’s fortunes can change drastically based on a single performance. “I am aware of things hotting up, but I just have to try and get my head down this weekend and kick some ass,” Ricciardo added, indicating his determination to put in a strong performance.
As the weekend progresses, all eyes will be on Ricciardo to see how he fares and whether the rumors surrounding his future will come to pass. For now, fans and drivers alike are enjoying the lighter moments that the Singapore Grand Prix continues to provide, from lizards on the track to the ever-dramatic driver market discussions.
