Alonso signals Red Bull interest amid Verstappen rumours

Fernando Alonso has explained Max Verstappen's potential exit from Red Bull could have an "impact" on his upcoming retirement decision.

However, the two-time world champion conceded he sees "zero chance" of the Dutchman changing teams.

Verstappen's future has been called into question in recent months amid the intra-team turmoil that has taken place at Red Bull.

Alonso has put a deadline of "before summer" to make a decision on his F1 future, and whether he wants to continue racing at the pinnacle of single-seater motorsport for another year.

Despite suggesting this season that he is considering retirement, Alonso has also been linked to the likes of Mercedes for 2025 to replace Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton.

'I know the rumours'

Red Bull also currently has an available seat for next year as Sergio Perez's current contract expires at the conclusion of this campaign.

If Verstappen also decides to dramatically leave Red Bull, then two spots could suddenly be available.

"Sure, if Max leaves Red Bull, maybe that has an impact," Alonso told media including RacingNews365. "But I think there is zero chance of that happening.

"So I think that's something that I'm not thinking [about] too much. And what I want to do is just concentrate on my stuff here and just this race, before trying to make a decision of if I keep racing around, and if I keep racing, where will be the best possibility.

"That stress that is happening, I know the rumours and things like that. We are not into those too much, I'm not into those for sure."

When pressed on why he believes Verstappen will not depart Red Bull, Alonso added: "I don't know. That's my feeling."