Under Horner’s guidance, Red Bull have scored 27 points this season, leading a race and fighting for podium finishes on the way. That is a far cry from Jaguar’s struggles, which eventually prompted parent company Ford to pull the plug.

But Horner is not content to settle for midfield respectability. He wants to follow the example of Benetton, the Italian clothing firm who guided Michael Schumacher to consecutive world titles.

He said: “We have already scored 27 points, eight more than Jaguar’s highest ever pervious total, almost what they scored in the last two years combined. That’s a significant achievement, but one can’t be complacent.

“We have to keep looking forward and our focus is on the remaining four races with an eye towards next year. The new car is well advanced and we are looking to take the next step next year.

“We won’t be content until we are competing at the front, that’s what racing is all about.

“That is very difficult for an independent team but not impossible. If a clothing company can do it 10 years go than why can’t a drinks company. That’s the target, that’s why I am involved in this.”

Horner is convinced he is building a squad capable of troubling Formula One’s big guns after a season spent recruiting key members of his backroom staff.

He added: “I believe the long-term objectives can be reached. We have all the right ingredients.

“The foundations have been laid for the future and you can see with the personnel we have recruited in recent months they are all good people and from winning backgrounds. The rudiments are coming together very well.”