Fernando Alonso issues hilarious response to crucial Max Verstappen question

Fernando Alonso has joked Max Verstappen would need to pay him a "huge amount of money" for his advice on whether or not to leave Red Bull for Mercedes.

The Aston Martin driver declined to give the Dutchman any pearls of wisdom when the four-time F1 drivers' champion's situation was put to him.

Alonso's own F1 career has seen him drive for five of the 10 teams currently on the F1 grid, including two stints at McLaren and three at Team Enstone, as Renault and later Alpine.

The Spaniard has made numerous high-profile moves since winning his two F1 drivers' championships, but none have yielded more title glory following his 2005 and 2006 crowns.

Verstappen, meanwhile, finds himself at a crossroads. The 27-year-old has won each of his four drivers' championships with Red Bull, but might have to see pastures new to continue winning.

Alonso was unable to replicate his early success after leaving Renault, so he is well-positioned to make Verstappen aware of the pitfalls of leaving his home in Milton Keynes.

However, the 32-grand prix winner was not in a forthcoming mood when he was asked what advice he would impart on the Red Bull driver - at media day for the British Grand Prix - but took the opportunity to light-heartedly offer his services.

"No advice," the 43-year-old replied to media, including RacingNews365.

"Well, I can be a consultant, but they need to pay a huge amount of money. At the moment, no advice."

The sudden flurry of media attention surrounding Verstappen's future was triggered by George Russell confirming at the Austrian Grand Prix that Toto Wolff is currently engaged with the 65-time grand prix winner's camp over a potential deal.

It is something that leaves the British driver in a precarious position, given his current Mercedes contract expires at the end of the season.

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