Horner: Mercedes and Ferrari fear Red Bull

Speaking ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Horner told The Guardian, “Mercedes and Ferrari fear Red Bull more than any other team because they know the potency and capability that we have. We don’t conform to their control. We are truly independent and will do things and go about our business in our own way.”

“Red Bull is an energy drinks company operating a team in F1, of course, it doesn’t sit particularly well when you are competing against iconic brands like Ferrari and Mercedes. We are happy to be perceived as a bit of a maverick. If we can grab opportunities this year, that is what we will do. We have two great drivers and are not afraid of taking risks.”

But the reality is that with Renault power Red Bull have been notably short of ammo to mount a sustained challenge for the championship over the past four years, but despite being an estimated 40bhp down on Mercedes power Horner is still upbeat about his team's chances this season.

“Mercedes are four times champions and with very little regulation change you would be foolish to bet against them,” explained the Red Bull F1 boss.

“Nobody has been in the championship fight for the last four years. Ferrari and Red Bull have both won eight races each. Mercedes have won everything else. It’s frustrating because a lot of it is beyond our control,” added Horner.