Virgin Racing in search of new horizons
Currently based in London, the Marussia Virgin Racing team has decided to change factories. They are expected to move near Silverstone.
During the British Grand Prix, the leaders of the Russian team had announced in the form of a rumor that they wanted to change their workplace soon. Since last year, they have been operating on two sites: the Manor Motorsport buildings in Dinnington for the operation and assembly of the MRV-02, and the premises of the former technical director Nick Wirth in Banbury, which serves as the center for research and technological development (computer-assisted simulation, testing…).
The reasons for this desire for change are multiple: split into two different locations, the team is not working in satisfactory conditions. It would prefer to have a more functional factory. Moreover, Virgin would like to get closer to its technology partner, McLaren Group, based in the Woking area.
John Booth, General Manager of Virgin Racing, has therefore recommended an initial move to the Banbury premises, before relocating the entire team near the Silverstone circuit by 2013: « This situation can no longer continue and a decision must be made quickly. The team has already settled on three different sites… To continue in F1, we need a stable and strong structure, capable of accommodating all of our activities. »
A technology park has indeed been created by the British authorities in Northamptonshire. It notably hosted Force India.
If everything goes according to schedule, Banbury would then become a training center for young drivers, to ensure the future and develop the activities of Virgin Racing.
Note that Team Lotus is also considering setting up at Silverstone to fully commit to Formula 1 and GP2.
