Massive lizard on track triggers red flag in Formula 1 practice in Singapore

A lizard scampered onto the track and brought about a brief stoppage during the the third and final F1 practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix.

The lizard, believed to be a Malayan water monitor, managed to find its way onto the Marina Bay street circuit only minutes into the session in the last complex of corners.

"They are a protected animal, and with that in mind ... this is a really sensible decision," Sky Sports F1 commentator David Croft said.

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"Whether there is anyone on hand who can help him to a more safe place ... there are some great people here, but whether there is an official lizard remover, I have no idea."

Two track marshals chased the long-tailed reptile off the track, but the lizard comfortably outran both of them.

"Look at the pace of him! This is a drag race - marshal against lizard," Croft quipped.

Several drivers watching in pit lane got a laugh out of it.

While they're not usually aggressive, they do have a powerful bite and will attack if threatened.

The session resumed shortly after.

The Malayan water monitor is one of several species of monitor found around Singapore, and can grow up to 3m long.

It's not the first time a monitor has scampered onto the track during the Singapore race meeting. A monitor that had earned the nickname 'Larry' got onto the track last year, but was unfortunately killed when he was run over by an unsighted Fernando Alonso.

Ironically, Alonso was one of only two cars on the track at the time this lizard made his appearance.

Lando Norris set the fastest time in qualifying later that evening, with championship leader Max Verstappen to start alongside him.

Oscar Piastri was fifth, and Daniel Ricciardo a disappointing 16th.

The Singapore Grand Prix will begin at 10pm AEST.