Bizarre scenes as F1 driver crashes after running over groundhog at Canadian Grand Prix

Formula 1 drivers already have plenty to deal with in every race, but factoring in animals on the track is a little bit harder to handle.

During the sprint race qualifying for the Canadian Grand Prix on Saturday morning (AEST), Alex Albon crashed into the side wall after attempting - and failing - to avoid a groundhog that had made its way onto the track in Montreal.

Albon spotted the small squirrel-like animal, also known as a marmot, at the last second before attempting to swerve, ending his race in the process.

READ MORE: Horner lurking as $165b giant confirms stunning F1 plot

READ MORE: Bosnich: Arsenal's chance to build five-year dynasty

READ MORE: Ciraldo fires back at 'made up rumours' as Dogs streak snapped

"It's one of the risks of this circuit. I know that sounds strange. Unfortunately there's been a few of these," Williams team principal James Vowles said.

"He has hit a marmot and the damage is extensive from that point onwards. He needed this session. You get 60 minutes and that's it, and to lose over half of it is frustrating.

"Back in the garage he's more worried about his mum, who suspects he's going to have to pay to adopt a family of marmots because that's a consequence of that."

It wasn't the only crash in a wild race either.

Fernando Alonso lost control of his Aston Martin vehicle and ended up driving it into a wall, while New Zealand's Liam Lawson was again forced out due to gearbox issues.

George Russell claimed pole position for the sprint race, finishing less than one-tenth of a second ahead of Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli

"This feels great after a tough Miami but I never doubted myself. I know what I can do. Miami is unique but this is an amazing circuit with high grip," Russell said.

"It feels you are driving a proper F1 car around here, which is how it should be.

"The team have done a great job to bring things forward and there is now a big focus for tomorrow. We are making baby steps.

"I am not going to say we are going to fly off the line. I hope that's the case but history tells us that hasn't happened often or at all this year."

Oscar Piastri finished fourth in the qualifying 0.334 seconds behind Russell.

Qualifying for the Canadian Grand Prix continues over the weekend, with the main race set for Monday morning (AEST).