The Audi Formula 1 project is taking a major step forward, as Sauber Motorsport has officially announced plans to set up a technical hub in the United Kingdom ahead of its transformation into Audi’s works F1 team in 2026.
For decades, Sauber has been one of the few F1 teams operating exclusively outside the UK, with its base in Hinwil, Switzerland. But as the Audi revolution takes shape, the team is moving fast to tap into the UK’s massive motorsport talent pool—a strategic move designed to accelerate their competitive development.
Sauber Eyes ‘Motorsport Valley’ for UK Expansion
While the Hinwil factory will remain the team’s headquarters, Sauber is actively scouting locations in the UK’s ‘Motorsport Valley’—a region home to some of F1’s most dominant teams, including Red Bull, Mercedes, and Aston Martin.
The team is evaluating three potential sites for its UK Technical Centre, with a target launch date of mid-2025:
📍 Bicester – Home to several high-performance engineering firms.
📍 Silverstone – Located next to the historic F1 circuit and a growing technology hub.
📍 Milton Keynes – Red Bull’s home base and an established motorsport powerhouse.
The UK expansion marks a radical shift for Sauber, which—along with Ferrari—has been one of only two F1 teams not based in the UK.
“We are excited to establish our technical centre in the UK to complement our key site in Hinwil,” said Mattia Binotto, COO and CTO of Sauber Motorsport.
“Expanding into the UK allows us to remain close to one of the world’s most dynamic motorsport ecosystems.”
Audi’s Masterplan: Building a Title-Winning F1 Team
Audi’s 2026 Formula 1 entry represents one of the biggest shake-ups in recent F1 history. The German manufacturer has fully acquired Sauber, transforming it into Audi’s first-ever works team in Formula 1.
But to compete with Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes, Audi needs elite F1 personnel—and that means setting up shop in the UK, where most of the sport’s top engineers and designers operate.
“Our vision is to create a strong, collaborative network across Hinwil and the UK, driving innovation and performance.”
This UK expansion is part of Audi’s larger blueprint to become a front-runner under the 2026 engine regulations, which introduce all-new hybrid power units and aero concepts.
What This Means for Audi’s F1 Future
By establishing a UK base, Audi is sending a clear message:
🚀 They are serious about competing at the highest level.
📈 They are investing in long-term performance, not just a brand-name entry.
🔍 They are targeting top F1 talent to accelerate their development.
With Sauber’s final season in 2025 before officially rebranding as Audi, expect rapid changes as the team positions itself for a major leap in 2026.
One thing is clear—Audi isn’t here to make up the numbers. They are here to win.