Széchenyi István University offers a unique, English-taught Master's programme in Motorsport Engineering—one of its kind in Central Europe—featuring instruction by several renowned experts recognized in the world of motorsports. One of them is Dr Sándor Kling, an engineer with the Williams Formula One team, who recently gave a series of lectures to students on four key topics.

Széchenyi István University plays a pivotal role in providing practice-oriented training for specialists capable of meeting the challenges of the automotive industry and competing on the international job market. As part of this mission, the University launched a unique Motorsport Engineering master’s programme in Central Europe, with its first cohort beginning in February this year. The two-semester, English-taught course offers cutting-edge knowledge in the design, testing, and operation of race vehicles.

Contributing to the programme are distinguished professionals working at the forefront of technical sports. Among them is Dr Sándor Kling—a prime source of inspiration for students, as he entered the world of Formula One immediately after completing university. He gained hands-on experience through the Formula Student competition, which led to an opportunity with the Red Bull Racing F1 team. Today, he serves as a senior engineer at Williams. Despite living in the UK due to his work, he was eager to participate in this exceptional training programme.

Dr Kling, an engineer with the Williams F1 team, not only shared technical knowledge, but also provided personal insights with students at Széchenyi István University. (Photo: József Bankó)

“I was happy to accept the invitation because I believe Széchenyi’s new programme is an excellent initiative. It's also very important to me to pass on my knowledge and experience to the next generation,” said the race engineer. He believes the programme is especially relevant, as professionals from Hungary are becoming increasingly well-known and respected internationally. “Abroad, there’s a growing recognition that highly trained engineers are emerging from Hungarian higher education institutions, and increasingly many are landing internship opportunities. Those who perform well can even receive job offers from the teams,” he added. A prime example is Anna Szakonyi, a vehicle engineering student at Széchenyi University, currently interning with the Sauber Formula One team.

Dr Kling delivered lectures on four topics to the master’s programme’s first cohort. “I spoke in separate modules about the importance of effective teamwork, the design and application of joints, the operations of Formula One teams, and finally, I shared my personal career path with the students. The sessions were very interactive, as the students showed great interest and asked plenty of questions,” he noted. He emphasized that while theoretical knowledge is important, gaining practical experience is crucial—something student teams at the University provide excellent opportunities for.

Several such teams operate at the University in Győr, including the Arrabona Racing Team, which competes at the forefront of the Formula Student field; SZEngine, which develops engines for them; and the SZEnergy Team, which recently set a world record for the fourth time in electric vehicle performance. “During my university years, I also gained experience in Formula Student, which is an excellent learning platform as it simulates the world of Formula One. Teams must design and build a race car, secure financial backing, and conduct marketing activities. Successful participation in this competition serves as a strong recommendation for careers in top-level motorsport,” he emphasized.

Dr Sándor Kling (fifth from the left) with Motorsport Engineering master's students at Széchenyi University. (Photo: József Bankó)

Finally, Dr Kling spoke about his current work at Williams. As a senior engineer, he handles structural analysis, focusing primarily on the front of the car—especially the front wing and the crumple zone. “These are particularly exciting projects because both components will be significantly affected by the regulatory changes coming into effect in 2026,” he explained. He added that he greatly enjoys his work and plans to continue in Formula One as long as both he and his family are happy with the lifestyle that comes with it.

More information about Széchenyi University’s Motorsport Engineering programme is available [here].