Running title: OTUB1 activates RIG-I during influenza virus infections Highlights 1. OTUB1 is induced during influenza A virus infections in an IFN-I dependent manner 2. OTUB1 regulates the RIG-I complex by hydrolysing K48-linked polyubiquitin chains and by sequestering UBCH5c to prevent K48 polyubiquitylation 3. Optimal K63 versus K48 polyubiquitin chain concentrations determine RIG-I activation 4. Influenza NS1 targets OTUB1 for proteasomal degradation Summary Deubiquitylases (DUBs) regulate critical signaling pathways at the intersection of host innate immunity and viral pathogenesis. Although RIG-I activation is heavily dependent on ubiquitylation, DUBs that regulate this pathway have not been identified. Using a ubiquitin C-terminal electrophile, we profiled DUBs that function during influenza A virus (IAV) infection, and isolated OTUB1 as a key regulator of RIG-I dependent antiviral responses. OTUB1 was interferon-inducible, and interacted with RIG-I, viral PB2 and NS1. Upon infection, OTUB1 relocalised from the nucleus to mitochondrial membranes, and activated the RIG-I signaling complex via hydrolysis of K48 polyubiquitin chains and by forming a repressive complex with UBCH5c. Using a reconstituted system composed of in vitro translated [ 35 S]IRF3, purified RIG-I, mitochondrial membranes and cytosol expressing OTUB1 variants, we recapitulated the mechanism of OTUB1dependent RIG-I activation. A wide range of IAV NS1 proteins triggered proteasomal degradation of OTUB1, thereby antagonizing the RIG-I signaling cascade and antiviral responses.