Sauber Launches UK Engineering Hub Ahead of Audi F1 Takeover in 2026.
Sauber Motorsport, the team currently competing in Formula 1 under the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber banner, has taken a significant step toward its future by launching a new engineering hub in the United Kingdom. This strategic move comes ahead of Audi’s planned takeover of the team in 2026, as the German automotive giant prepares for its highly anticipated entry into Formula 1.
The new UK-based engineering hub, located in Brackley, will serve as a key technical center to support Sauber’s operations in Hinwil, Switzerland. This development underscores the growing collaboration between Sauber and Audi, as they work together to build a competitive team capable of challenging at the front of the grid when the new regulations come into effect in 2026.
Strengthening Technical Capabilities
The decision to establish a presence in the UK aligns with Formula 1’s technical ecosystem, as many leading teams and suppliers are based in the region. The UK, particularly in areas like Brackley and Silverstone, is considered a global hub for motorsport engineering and development. By tapping into this rich talent pool, Sauber aims to bolster its technical expertise ahead of the Audi transition.
With the UK’s wealth of engineering talent, the new hub is expected to attract top-tier personnel who can contribute to the development of Sauber’s 2026 car, which will feature Audi’s first-ever F1 power unit. This expansion also facilitates greater collaboration with other technical partners based in the country, enhancing Sauber’s ability to develop a competitive package under the upcoming regulations.
Audi’s F1 Ambitions Take Shape
Audi officially announced its Formula 1 entry in 2022, confirming that it would develop its own power unit at its Neuburg facility in Germany. Shortly after, the German manufacturer acquired a majority stake in the Sauber team, which will transition into Audi’s full works outfit in 2026.
The addition of the UK hub marks another milestone in Audi’s meticulous approach to building a strong foundation before its debut. The move highlights the company’s commitment to competing at the highest level, ensuring that its F1 project benefits from the best available resources in both Switzerland and the UK.
Audi’s power unit development has already made significant progress, with test bench operations in full swing. The partnership with Sauber allows for an integrated approach, where chassis development in Hinwil is aligned with power unit advancements in Neuburg. Now, with an additional presence in the UK, the team is reinforcing its technical capabilities in preparation for the new era of Formula 1.
A Strategic Move for Long-Term Success
The new UK engineering hub is not just a short-term solution but a crucial step in Sauber’s long-term strategy. As the team transitions from its current identity to becoming Audi’s factory team, it must ensure a seamless integration between its existing Swiss headquarters, the power unit development in Germany, and its newly established UK presence.
This expansion also reflects the changing landscape of Formula 1, where manufacturers and teams are increasingly leveraging multiple locations to optimize development. Other teams, such as Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes, operate across different sites to maximize efficiency, and Sauber’s latest move follows a similar blueprint.
The Road to 2026
With just two seasons remaining before Audi’s official F1 debut, Sauber is laying the groundwork for a successful transition. The team will continue racing under its current branding in 2024 and 2025, while behind the scenes, preparations for 2026 are accelerating.
The UK hub is expected to play a vital role in this process, ensuring that the team is in the best possible position when Audi takes full control. With Audi’s resources, Sauber’s established infrastructure, and a growing pool of engineering expertise, the team aims to become a formidable force in Formula 1’s new era.
As the countdown to 2026 continues, all eyes will be on Sauber and Audi to see how this ambitious project unfolds. If executed well, this partnership could lead to a new competitive force in Formula 1, challenging the established giants of the sport.
