A British man who walked across the track during the Singapore grand prix was charged in court Tuesday for committing a “rash act” that endangered the lives of drivers.

A charge sheet said Yogvitam Pravin Dhokia, 27, endangered the “personal safety of the drivers” when he crossed the track on the 37th lap of the street circuit race on Sunday night.

It said he was accused of committing an offence under the penal code punishable with imprisonment of up to six months or a maximum fine of Sg$2,500 ($A2,500), or both.

“We can confirm the arrest of a British national in Singapore and we stand ready to provide consular assistance,” a spokesperson for the British High Commission told AFP in an email.

Dhokia’s passport was impounded and bail was set at Sg$15,000 ($A15,000) but the Briton said he could not afford the amount, local media reported.

“I’m not working currently. I spent all my savings on tickets. I don’t really have that kind of money,” state broadcaster Channel NewsAsia quoted him as telling District Judge Ronald Gwee.

Closed circuit television footage released after the race showed Dhokia wriggling his way through a gap in the metal fence and onto the track.

Clad in a T-shirt and shorts, he crossed the track, first walking slowly and then accelerating as race cars sped by.