The Singapore Grand Prix produced a hilarious moment on Saturday as a lizard appeared on the track at the start of FP3. The session was then red-flagged as marshals chased the animal off the race track.

This, surprisingly, is not an uncommon occurrence in Singapore. Lizards are often spotted on the track and their appearances have become something to celebrate for fans in attendance, and watching from home.

On this occasion, the session was initially green and Fernando Alonso made his way onto the track, but he was unable to complete his lap due to the presence of the lizard at the final corner.

“We are told the track is clear, but just have a look for the lizard,” said Alonso’s race engineer, before the Spaniard hit back: “No it’s in the middle of the track.

With the red flag out, a marshal made his way onto the track to chase the lizard off, much to the amusement of Daniel Ricciardo, who was filmed giggling at the footage in the VCARB garage.

Ricciardo will need to savour the Singapore GP weekend, as it could be his last as an F1 driver. Reports have been circulating in the paddock that the popular Aussie could be replaced by Liam Lawson for the United States Grand Prix onwards.

“I don’t think so, but I also don’t want to stand here and be the lawyer,” he said on Thursday. “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.

“But I don’t want to be like: ‘Oh, 100 per cent I’ll be my house on it. I’ve been around too long. I really don’t know what is going to happen, but 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.

“That is the merry-go-round we are on, and I know it can just change so quickly. I am aware of things hotting up but I just have to try and get my head down this weekend and kick some ass.”