Niki Lauda believes Fernando Alonso's chances of securing a drive with either Ferrari or Mercedes next season are remote.
The Mercedes non-executive chairman points to the Spanish driver's history as reasons to discard his chances of racing with either outfit in the near future despite his future currently appearing wide open.
"He left a lot of trouble with his teams when he left," the great Austrian told Spanish broadcaster Movistar.
"I don't think Ferrari wants to have him again. He left with a contract. The same thing happened with us (McLaren-Mercedes).
"We (Mercedes) have drivers who do their job, so if we win with Hamilton and Bottas, we don't need a replacement."
Nonetheless, Lauda said Alonso's actual talent is beyond dispute.
"He is fast, aggressive, in this way he is the best. But unfortunately, drivers sometimes cannot prove they are the best by the decisions they make, and Alonso has made many mistakes," he said.
"He left Ferrari very early and decided to go to McLaren, but the problem with Honda's engine development was already known.
"Now he's disappointed, but going to McLaren was his decision."
As Alonso prepares for his first test at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway this week, Lauda understands why the two-time world champion has been tempted by the Indy 500 challenge.
"He's bored and he needs a challenge," Lauda said.
"As a driver I understand, but for McLaren to let him go in the most important race of the year and where they can have their best result is a tough decision to make.
"It's a good decision for Alonso because he can enjoy things there that he cannot do here, and I'm curious to see what he can do at Indy."
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