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Revision as of 11:44, 5 November 2016 editPrisonermonkeys (talk | contribs)Autopatrolled, Extended confirmed users35,281 edits They're the defending champions whatever they do, and this is covered in more detail in a morr appropriate sectionTags: Mobile edit Mobile web edit← Previous edit Revision as of 13:04, 5 November 2016 edit undoTvx1 (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users, Pending changes reviewers26,720 edits Copyedit to remove crystal ball statements as well as statements that have became outdated due to recent events.Tag: Visual editNext edit →
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{{World Rally Championship}} {{World Rally Championship}}


] will be the defending drivers' champion.]] ] is the defending drivers' champion]]
] will be the defending their manufacturers' champions.]] ] announced their intention not to return in 2017.]]


The '''2017 World Rally Championship''' will be the forty-fifth season of the ], an ] championship recognised by the ] (FIA) as the highest class of international ]. Teams and crews will compete for the ], Co-drivers and ]. Drivers will be free to compete in cars complying with ] and ] regulations; however, only Manufacturers competing with World Rally Cars will be eligible to score points in the Manufacturers' championship. The series will once again be supported by the ] and ] championships at every round. The '''2017 World Rally Championship''' is scheduled to be the forty-fifth season of the ], an ] championship recognised by the ] (FIA) as the highest class of international ]. Teams and crews are planned to compete for the ], Co-drivers and ]. Drivers are free to compete in cars complying with ] and ] regulations; however, only Manufacturers competing with World Rally Cars would be eligible to score points in the Manufacturers' championship. The series is scheduled to be once again be supported by the ] and ] championships at every round.


The 2017 season will see substantial revisions to the technical regulations aimed at improving the performance of the cars and offering teams a greater degree of technical and design freedom. ] will return to the sport as a full manufacturer team, entering the ], while ] will return to full-time competition after contesting a partial campaign in ] and ] will withdraw from the championship. The 2017 season plans to see substantial revisions to the technical regulations aimed at improving the performance of the cars and offering teams a greater degree of technical and design freedom. ] is expected to return to the sport as a full manufacturer team, entering the ], while ] also plans to return to full-time competition after contesting a partial campaign in ] and ] announced their intention to withdraw from the championship at the end of the 2016 season.


] and ] are the defending World Drivers' and Co-drivers' Champions, after securing their fourth World Championship titles at the ].<ref>{{cite news|title=Ogier takes fourth WRC title with Spain win|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126697/ogier-takes-fourth-wrc-title-with-spain-win|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=16 October 2016|accessdate=16 October 2016}}</ref> Their team, ], are the defending World Manufacturers' Champions, having secured their fourth title at the ]; however, they will not return for the 2017 season.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126908/ogier-claims-fourthstraight-rally-gb-victory|title=Rally GB: Volkswagen's Sebastien Ogier claims fourth win in Wales|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=30 October 2016|accessdate=31 October 2016}}</ref><ref name="VW out">{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126949/volkswagen-confirms-wrc-exit|title=Volkswagen confirms it will leave the WRC at the end of 2016|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=2 November 2016|accessdate=2 November 2016}}</ref> ] and ] are the defending World Drivers' and Co-drivers' Champions, after securing their fourth World Championship titles at the ].<ref>{{cite news|title=Ogier takes fourth WRC title with Spain win|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126697/ogier-takes-fourth-wrc-title-with-spain-win|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=16 October 2016|accessdate=16 October 2016}}</ref> Their team, ], are the defending World Manufacturers' Champions, having secured their fourth title at the ]; however, they do not intend to return for the 2017 season.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126908/ogier-claims-fourthstraight-rally-gb-victory|title=Rally GB: Volkswagen's Sebastien Ogier claims fourth win in Wales|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=30 October 2016|accessdate=31 October 2016}}</ref><ref name="VW out">{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126949/volkswagen-confirms-wrc-exit|title=Volkswagen confirms it will leave the WRC at the end of 2016|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=2 November 2016|accessdate=2 November 2016}}</ref>


==List of planned events== ==List of planned events==
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===Constructor changes=== ===Constructor changes===
] will return to the World Rally Championship in 2017.]] ] plans to return to the World Rally Championship in 2017.]]
* ] will return to the sport with a fully factory-supported team after competing part-time in 2016 to focus on the development of their 2017-generation car.<ref name="ds3 out"/> The ] will be retired from competition and succeeded by the ], a brand-new car based on the ].<ref name="c3 wrc"/> The decision to re-enter the World Rally Championship will see Citroën withdraw its factory support for the ] and its ] programme.<ref>{{cite news|last=Abbott|first=Andrew|title=Citroën to end WTCC programme after 2016|url=http://www.touringcars.net/2015/11/citroen-to-end-wtcc-programme-after-2016|work=TouringCars.Net|accessdate=9 April 2016|date=19 November 2015}}</ref> * ] announced their intention to return to the sport with a fully factory-supported team after competing part-time in 2016 to focus on the development of their 2017-generation car.<ref name="ds3 out"/> The ] is to be retired from competition and succeeded by the ], a brand-new car based on the ].<ref name="c3 wrc"/> The decision to re-enter the World Rally Championship is scheduled to coincide with Citroën withdrawing its factory support for the ] and its ] programme.<ref>{{cite news|last=Abbott|first=Andrew|title=Citroën to end WTCC programme after 2016|url=http://www.touringcars.net/2015/11/citroen-to-end-wtcc-programme-after-2016|work=TouringCars.Net|accessdate=9 April 2016|date=19 November 2015}}</ref>
* ] will return to entering a three-door variant of the ], known as the New Generation i20 WRC,<ref name="i20 new gen">{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126322/hyundai-close-to-final-2017-wrc-car-spec|title=Hyundai close to final specification of its 2017 World Rally Car|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=23 September 2016|accessdate=23 September 2016}}</ref> having used the five-door model in competition throughout the ].<ref name="3 door i20">{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124921/hyundai-to-switch-wrc-models-for-2017|title=Hyundai to switch its i20 World Rally Championship model for 2017|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=22 June 2016|accessdate=23 June 2016}}</ref> The team had previously used a three-door model in ] and ] before being forced to adopt the five-door model in 2016 for logistical reasons.<ref name="3 door i20"/> However, the team considered the three-door model to be better-suited to competition, and developed the New Generation i20 WRC around it.<ref name="i20 new gen"/> * ] plan to return to entering a three-door variant of the ], known as the New Generation i20 WRC,<ref name="i20 new gen">{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/126322/hyundai-close-to-final-2017-wrc-car-spec|title=Hyundai close to final specification of its 2017 World Rally Car|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=23 September 2016|accessdate=23 September 2016}}</ref> having used the five-door model in competition throughout the ].<ref name="3 door i20">{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124921/hyundai-to-switch-wrc-models-for-2017|title=Hyundai to switch its i20 World Rally Championship model for 2017|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=22 June 2016|accessdate=23 June 2016}}</ref> The team had previously used a three-door model in ] and ] before being forced to adopt the five-door model in 2016 for logistical reasons.<ref name="3 door i20"/> However, the team considered the three-door model to be better-suited to competition, and developed the New Generation i20 WRC around it.<ref name="i20 new gen"/>
* ] will return to the sport after eighteen years.<ref name="Yaris"/> The Japanese manufacturer will enter the brand-new ] under the banner of Toyota GAZOO Racing.<ref name="GAZOO"/> The development and operation of the cars will be overseen by four-time World Drivers' Champion ].<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.speedcafe.com/2015/07/07/tommi-makinen-to-head-up-toyotas-wrc-bid/|title=Tommi Mäkinen to head up Toyota's WRC bid|work=speedcafe.com|date=7 July 2015|accessdate=7 March 2016}}</ref> Toyota last competed in the sport as a factory-supported team between ] and ] with the ] before withdrawing ahead of the ] to focus on its ]. * ] announced their plans to return to the sport after eighteen years.<ref name="Yaris"/> The Japanese manufacturer is scheduled to enter the brand-new ] under the banner of Toyota GAZOO Racing.<ref name="GAZOO"/> The development and operation of the cars is overseen by four-time World Drivers' Champion ].<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.speedcafe.com/2015/07/07/tommi-makinen-to-head-up-toyotas-wrc-bid/|title=Tommi Mäkinen to head up Toyota's WRC bid|work=speedcafe.com|date=7 July 2015|accessdate=7 March 2016}}</ref> Toyota last competed in the sport as a factory-supported team between ] and ] with the ] before withdrawing ahead of the ] to focus on its ].
* ] will leave the championship at the end of the 2016 season, with the company cancelling the ] programme in light of the ] that broke in 2015.<ref name="VW out"/> The 2016 specification of the Polo R WRC will be retired from competition, while the 2017 model will be abandoned in favour of a Polo rally car built to ] regulations and scheduled for introduction in 2018.<ref name="VW out"/> * ] intend to leave the championship at the end of the 2016 season, with the company cancelling the ] programme in light of the ] that broke in 2015.<ref name="VW out"/> The 2016 specification of the Polo R WRC is to be retired from competition, while the 2017 model is planned to be abandoned in favour of a Polo rally car built to ] regulations and scheduled for introduction in 2018.<ref name="VW out"/>


====Team changes==== ====Team changes====
* ] will expand to enter a second car for the 2017 season.<ref name="dmack plans"/> * ] is scheduled to expand to enter a second car for the 2017 season.<ref name="dmack plans"/>


===Crew changes=== ===Crew changes===
* ] will return to the championship, driving for Toyota.<ref name="juho kaj"/> Hänninen last contested the championship on a regular basis with Hyundai in ] before joining Toyota as a development driver. Hänninen will switch co-drivers, with ] replacing ].<ref name="juho kaj"/> * ] signed a deal to return to the championship, driving for Toyota.<ref name="juho kaj"/> Hänninen last contested the championship on a regular basis with Hyundai in ] before joining Toyota as a development driver. Hänninen will switch co-drivers, with ] replacing ].<ref name="juho kaj"/>
* ] and co-driver ] will return to full-time competition with ].<ref name="citroen drivers 17"/> ] and ] will share a car with ] between events&mdash;as they did in 2016&mdash;but will contest the full season once a third C3 WRC becomes available.<ref name="citroen drivers 17"/> * ] and co-driver ] signed for a full-time drive with ].<ref name="citroen drivers 17"/> ] and ] are planned to share a car with ] between events&mdash;as they did in 2016&mdash;but are scheduled to contest the full season once a third C3 WRC becomes available.<ref name="citroen drivers 17"/>
* As a result of Volkswagen's decision to cancel their World Rally Championship programme, ]'s three crews&mdash;] and ], ] and ], and ] and ]&mdash;left the team.<ref name="VW out"/> * As a result of Volkswagen's decision to cancel their World Rally Championship programme, ]'s three crews&mdash;] and ], ] and ], and ] and ]&mdash;left the team.<ref name="VW out"/>


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===Technical regulations=== ===Technical regulations===
] and ]&mdash;such as this ]&mdash;will still be eligible to compete in 2017.]] ] and ]&mdash;such as this ]&mdash;are still eligible to compete in 2017.]]
* The sport will undergo a revision of the technical regulations, introducing a variety of changes aimed at improving aerodynamic and mechanical grip,<ref name="technical regulations">{{cite news|url=http://www.speedcafe.com/2015/07/11/wrc-cars-to-become-more-aggressive-in-2017/|title=WRC cars to become more aggressive in 2017|work=speedcafe.com|date=11 July 2015|accessdate=7 March 2016}}</ref> with modelling suggesting that average stage speeds will increase to the point where stage records could be broken by up to thirty seconds and drawing comparisons to the defunct ] regulations.<ref name="new group b"/><ref name="Meeke Group B"/> * The sport underwent a revision of the technical regulations for 2017, introducing a variety of changes aimed at improving aerodynamic and mechanical grip,<ref name="technical regulations">{{cite news|url=http://www.speedcafe.com/2015/07/11/wrc-cars-to-become-more-aggressive-in-2017/|title=WRC cars to become more aggressive in 2017|work=speedcafe.com|date=11 July 2015|accessdate=7 March 2016}}</ref> with modelling suggesting that average stage speeds is expected to increase to the point where stage records could be broken by up to thirty seconds and drawing comparisons to the defunct ] regulations.<ref name="new group b"/><ref name="Meeke Group B"/>
** An increase in the engine's power output from {{convert|300|bhp|kW|1|abbr=on}} to {{convert|380|bhp|kW|1|abbr=on}}, the equivalent of a TC1-specification ] engine.<ref name="Meeke Group B">{{cite news|url= http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/april-2016/citroen-test-/page/3459--12-12-.html|title=Meeke: 2017 Citroën has Group B spirit|work=wrc.com|publisher=]|accessdate=21 April 2016|date=19 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.speedcafe.com/2016/04/16/citroen-uncovers-new-c3-wrc-car/|title=Citroën uncovers new C3 WRC car|work=speedcafe.com|date=16 April 2016|accessdate=16 April 2016}}</ref> ** An increase in the engine's power output from {{convert|300|bhp|kW|1|abbr=on}} to {{convert|380|bhp|kW|1|abbr=on}}, the equivalent of a TC1-specification ] engine.<ref name="Meeke Group B">{{cite news|url= http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/april-2016/citroen-test-/page/3459--12-12-.html|title=Meeke: 2017 Citroën has Group B spirit|work=wrc.com|publisher=]|accessdate=21 April 2016|date=19 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.speedcafe.com/2016/04/16/citroen-uncovers-new-c3-wrc-car/|title=Citroën uncovers new C3 WRC car|work=speedcafe.com|date=16 April 2016|accessdate=16 April 2016}}</ref>
** The introduction of a larger ] restrictor, increasing from 33mm in 2016 to 36mm in 2017; however, the maximum allowable turbo pressure will remain fixed at 2.5 bar absolute.<ref name="fia regs">{{cite news|url=http://www.fia.com/news/new-regulations-coming-2017-world-rally-car|title=New regulations coming for the 2017 World Rally Car|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=14 April 2016|date=10 July 2015}}</ref> ** The introduction of a larger ] restrictor, increasing from 33mm in 2016 to 36mm in 2017; however, the maximum allowable turbo pressure will remain fixed at 2.5 bar absolute.<ref name="fia regs">{{cite news|url=http://www.fia.com/news/new-regulations-coming-2017-world-rally-car|title=New regulations coming for the 2017 World Rally Car|work=]|publisher=]|accessdate=14 April 2016|date=10 July 2015}}</ref>
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** Deregulation of the rules governing the wheel arches, allowing the introduction of additional brake cooling ducts.<ref name="air ducts"/> ** Deregulation of the rules governing the wheel arches, allowing the introduction of additional brake cooling ducts.<ref name="air ducts"/>
** The reintroduction of an active ] for the first time since the ].<ref name="new group b">{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/123708/concerns-over-2017-wrc-cars-growing|title=Concerns over speed and spectacle of 2017 WRC cars growing|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=11 April 2016|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref> ** The reintroduction of an active ] for the first time since the ].<ref name="new group b">{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/123708/concerns-over-2017-wrc-cars-growing|title=Concerns over speed and spectacle of 2017 WRC cars growing|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=11 April 2016|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref>
** Constructors will be permitted to use an electronic differential for the first time.<ref>{{cite web|title=Citroen previews its 2017 WRC challenger|url=http://www.speedcafe.com/2016/09/21/citroen-previews-2017-wrc-challenger/|work=speedcafe.com|publisher=]|date=21 September 2016|accessdate=21 September 2016}}</ref> ** The introduction of an electronic differential for the first time in the sport.<ref>{{cite web|title=Citroen previews its 2017 WRC challenger|url=http://www.speedcafe.com/2016/09/21/citroen-previews-2017-wrc-challenger/|work=speedcafe.com|publisher=]|date=21 September 2016|accessdate=21 September 2016}}</ref>
* ] requirements will be relaxed to allow any production car that is at least {{convert|3.9|m|ft|1|abbr=on}} long to be eligible for recognition as a World Rally Car.<ref name="fia regs"/> The design of the car must be finalised by September 2016 and submitted for homologation by 1 November 2016.<ref name="42 days">{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/125378/vw-close-to-finalising-2017-wrc-car-spec|title=Volkswagen close to finalising 2017 World Rally Car design|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=21 July 2016|accessdate=21 July 2016}}</ref> * ] requirements were relaxed to allow any production car that is at least {{convert|3.9|m|ft|1|abbr=on}} long to be eligible for recognition as a World Rally Car.<ref name="fia regs"/> The design of the car was finalised by September 2016 and submitted for homologation by 1 November 2016.<ref name="42 days">{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/125378/vw-close-to-finalising-2017-wrc-car-spec|title=Volkswagen close to finalising 2017 World Rally Car design|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=21 July 2016|accessdate=21 July 2016}}</ref>


===Sporting regulations=== ===Sporting regulations===
* The points-scoring system for the World Championship for Manufacturers will change, with manufacturers permitted to enter at least two and as many as three crews in each round, with the best two results being awarded points.<ref name="2017 dates"/> * The points-scoring system for the World Championship for Manufacturers was changed, with manufacturers permitted to enter at least two and as many as three crews in each round, with the best two results being awarded points.<ref name="2017 dates"/>
* A new Privateers' Cup will be created for crews entering World Rally Cars used between ] and ].<ref name="2017 dates">{{cite news|url=http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/september-2016/2017-calendar/page/3911--12-12-.html|title=2017 WRC dates confirmed|work=wrc.com|publisher=]|date=28 September 2016|accessdate=29 September 2016}}</ref><ref name="private cup"/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124188/fia-evaluating-future-of-current-wrc-cars|title=Future of existing WRC cars being evaluated by FIA|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=10 May 2016|accessdate=10 May 2016}}</ref> * A new Privateers' Cup is scheduled to be contested for crews entering World Rally Cars used between ] and ].<ref name="2017 dates">{{cite news|url=http://www.wrc.com/en/wrc/news/september-2016/2017-calendar/page/3911--12-12-.html|title=2017 WRC dates confirmed|work=wrc.com|publisher=]|date=28 September 2016|accessdate=29 September 2016}}</ref><ref name="private cup"/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124188/fia-evaluating-future-of-current-wrc-cars|title=Future of existing WRC cars being evaluated by FIA|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=10 May 2016|accessdate=10 May 2016}}</ref>
* The FIA will exercise stricter controls over which drivers are eligible to compete in 2017-specification cars by only permitting registered manufacturers to enter 2017-specification cars.<ref name="2017 dates"/><ref name="private cup"/> The rule will be introduced as a response to concerns over inexperienced drivers and drivers ] from being able to compete in the more powerful 2017 cars without oversight.<ref>{{cite news|title=No privateer 2017 World Rally Car entries to be permitted by FIA|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124957/privateers-barred-from-2017-world-rally-cars|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=24 June 2016|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref> The controls will stop short of a licensing system similar to the one used ] to allow experienced guest drivers to compete part-time.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124119/fia-to-restrict-drivers-of-2017-wrc-machines|title=Drivers of 2017 World Rally Cars must be approved by FIA|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=5 May 2016|accessdate=6 May 2016}}</ref> * The FIA plans to exercise stricter controls over which drivers are eligible to compete in 2017-specification cars by only permitting registered manufacturers to enter 2017-specification cars.<ref name="2017 dates"/><ref name="private cup"/> The rule is planned to be introduced as a response to concerns over inexperienced drivers and drivers ] from being able to compete in the more powerful 2017 cars without oversight.<ref>{{cite news|title=No privateer 2017 World Rally Car entries to be permitted by FIA|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124957/privateers-barred-from-2017-world-rally-cars|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=24 June 2016|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref> The controls stop short of a licensing system similar to the one used ] to allow experienced guest drivers to compete part-time.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/124119/fia-to-restrict-drivers-of-2017-wrc-machines|title=Drivers of 2017 World Rally Cars must be approved by FIA|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=5 May 2016|accessdate=6 May 2016}}</ref>
* The rules governing the running order&mdash;the order in which drivers enter a stage&mdash;will be reviewed following concerns over road sweeping.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/125287/vw-chief-warns-ogier-could-quit-over-rules|title=VW WRC boss warns Ogier could quit over 2017 running order rules|first=David|last=Evans|work=]|publisher=]|date=14 July 2016|accessdate=15 July 2016}}</ref> Under the system used in ], the running order was based on the drivers' championship standings, which attracted criticism from drivers on loose-surface events, as by virtue of their position the championship leaders were forced to clear the roads of loose gravel, costing them time and exposing the harder-packed and faster road base for following drivers to take advantage of.


==References== ==References==

Revision as of 13:04, 5 November 2016

2017 World Rally Championship Previous 2016 Next 2018 Support series:
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Sébastien Ogier is the defending drivers' champion
Defending manufacturers' champions Volkswagen Motorsport announced their intention not to return in 2017.

The 2017 World Rally Championship is scheduled to be the forty-fifth season of the World Rally Championship, an auto racing championship recognised by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) as the highest class of international rallying. Teams and crews are planned to compete for the World Rally Championships for Drivers, Co-drivers and Manufacturers. Drivers are free to compete in cars complying with World Rally Car and Group R regulations; however, only Manufacturers competing with World Rally Cars would be eligible to score points in the Manufacturers' championship. The series is scheduled to be once again be supported by the WRC-2 and WRC-3 championships at every round.

The 2017 season plans to see substantial revisions to the technical regulations aimed at improving the performance of the cars and offering teams a greater degree of technical and design freedom. Toyota is expected to return to the sport as a full manufacturer team, entering the Toyota Yaris WRC, while Citroën also plans to return to full-time competition after contesting a partial campaign in 2016 and Volkswagen announced their intention to withdraw from the championship at the end of the 2016 season.

Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia are the defending World Drivers' and Co-drivers' Champions, after securing their fourth World Championship titles at the 52º Rally Catalunya. Their team, Volkswagen Motorsport, are the defending World Manufacturers' Champions, having secured their fourth title at the 72nd Wales Rally GB; however, they do not intend to return for the 2017 season.

List of planned events

A provisional calendar was announced in September 2016 by the FIA. The calendar contained twelve of the fourteen rallies featured in the 2016 championship, with three further rallies under review.

Round Dates Rally name Rally headquarters Surface
Start Finish
1 20 January 22 January Monaco 85ème Rallye Automobile Monte-Carlo Gap, Hautes-Alpes Mixed
2 10 February 12 February Sweden 65th Rally Sweden Karlstad, Värmland Snow
3 10 March 12 March Mexico 31º Rally Guanajuato México León, Guanajuato Gravel
4 7 April 9 April France 60ème Tour de Corse – Rallye de France Bastia, Haute-Corse Tarmac
5 28 April 30 April Argentina 37º Rally Argentina Villa Carlos Paz, Córdoba Gravel
6 19 May 21 May Portugal 51º Rally de Portugal Matosinhos, Porto Gravel
7 9 June 11 June Italy 14º Rally d'Italia Sardegna Alghero, Sardinia Gravel
8 TBA TBA Finland 67th Rally Finland Jyväskylä, Keski-Suomi Gravel
9 TBA TBA Germany 35. ADAC Rallye Deutschland Trier, Rhineland-Palatinate Tarmac
10 TBA TBA Spain 53º Rally RACC Catalunya – Costa Daurada Salou, Tarragona Mixed
11 TBA TBA United Kingdom 73rd Wales Rally GB Deeside, Flintshire Gravel
12 TBA TBA Australia 26th Rally Australia Coffs Harbour, New South Wales Gravel
Source:

Calendar changes

  • The FIA re-organised the calendar to include a greater variation in surfaces between events, bringing the Tour de Corse forward from October to April. The decision was made after concerns were expressed about the 2016 calendar, which originally contained six consecutive gravel events followed by four tarmac rallies.
  • The FIA put the Rallies of Argentina and Poland on notice regarding safety concerns, threatening to rescind their World Championship status for the 2017 season unless safety standards were improved in 2016. While Rally Argentina was included on the provisional calendar, Rally Poland was omitted subject to approval.
  • Following its cancellation in 2016, the Rally of China was omitted from the provisional calendar.
  • Proposals from fourteen new and established rallies across Europe, the Middle East and Asia were submitted to the FIA for accreditation as World Championship or candidature rounds with a view to expanding the calendar. Of the fourteen submissions, only the Rally of Turkey—which last featured as a round of the World Championship in 2010—was included for consideration on the provisional calendar, while a new event in the United Arab Emirates was also reported as being under consideration. The expansion was first touted after FIA President Jean Todt expressed concerns that the championship was too heavily focused on European events, with just four of the fourteen rallies held as part of the 2016 season being run outside Europe.

Entries

The following teams and drivers are scheduled to compete in the World Rally Championship during the 2017 season:

World Rally Car entries eligible to score manufacturer points
Constructor Team Tyres Drivers Co-drivers
Citroën
(Citroën C3 WRC) 		France Citroën World Rally Team TBA United Arab Emirates Khalid Al Qassimi TBA
Republic of Ireland Craig Breen United Kingdom Scott Martin
France Stéphane Lefebvre TBA
United Kingdom Kris Meeke Republic of Ireland Paul Nagle
Hyundai
(Hyundai New Generation i20 WRC) 		Germany Hyundai World Rally Team TBA Belgium Thierry Neuville Belgium Nicolas Gilsoul
New Zealand Hayden Paddon New Zealand John Kennard
Spain Dani Sordo TBA
M-Sport
(Ford Fiesta RS WRC) 		United Kingdom DMACK World Rally Team D TBA TBA
TBA TBA
United Kingdom M-Sport World Rally Team TBA France Eric Camilli TBA
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Toyota
(Toyota Yaris WRC) 		Japan Toyota GAZOO Racing M Finland Juho Hänninen Finland Kaj Lindström
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TBA TBA
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Constructor changes

Citroën plans to return to the World Rally Championship in 2017.
  • Citroën announced their intention to return to the sport with a fully factory-supported team after competing part-time in 2016 to focus on the development of their 2017-generation car. The DS3 WRC is to be retired from competition and succeeded by the C3 WRC, a brand-new car based on the Citroën C3. The decision to re-enter the World Rally Championship is scheduled to coincide with Citroën withdrawing its factory support for the Citroën C-Elysée WTCC and its World Touring Car Championship programme.
  • Hyundai plan to return to entering a three-door variant of the i20 WRC, known as the New Generation i20 WRC, having used the five-door model in competition throughout the 2016 season. The team had previously used a three-door model in 2014 and 2015 before being forced to adopt the five-door model in 2016 for logistical reasons. However, the team considered the three-door model to be better-suited to competition, and developed the New Generation i20 WRC around it.
  • Toyota announced their plans to return to the sport after eighteen years. The Japanese manufacturer is scheduled to enter the brand-new Toyota Yaris WRC under the banner of Toyota GAZOO Racing. The development and operation of the cars is overseen by four-time World Drivers' Champion Tommi Mäkinen. Toyota last competed in the sport as a factory-supported team between 1997 and 1999 with the Corolla WRC before withdrawing ahead of the 2000 season to focus on its Formula One project.
  • Volkswagen intend to leave the championship at the end of the 2016 season, with the company cancelling the Polo R WRC programme in light of the emissions scandal that broke in 2015. The 2016 specification of the Polo R WRC is to be retired from competition, while the 2017 model is planned to be abandoned in favour of a Polo rally car built to R5 regulations and scheduled for introduction in 2018.

Team changes

Crew changes

Regulation changes

Technical regulations

Cars that competed between 2011 and 2016—such as this Mini John Cooper Works WRC—are still eligible to compete in 2017.
  • The sport underwent a revision of the technical regulations for 2017, introducing a variety of changes aimed at improving aerodynamic and mechanical grip, with modelling suggesting that average stage speeds is expected to increase to the point where stage records could be broken by up to thirty seconds and drawing comparisons to the defunct Group B regulations.
    • An increase in the engine's power output from 300 bhp (223.7 kW) to 380 bhp (283.4 kW), the equivalent of a TC1-specification World Touring Car Championship engine.
    • The introduction of a larger turbo restrictor, increasing from 33mm in 2016 to 36mm in 2017; however, the maximum allowable turbo pressure will remain fixed at 2.5 bar absolute.
    • A reduction in the overall weight of the car, cutting 25 kg (55.1 lb) from the monocoque.
    • An increase in the overhang of the front and rear bumpers, and increases in the size of the door sills, door pillars and the fixed rear wing, allowing for the inclusion of additional aerodynamic aids. However, the bodywork of the 2017 model must be able to cover the bodywork of the 2016 model of car.
    • Deregulation of the rules governing the rear diffuser to allow manufacturers to develop a wider range of aerodynamic shapes.
    • Deregulation of the rules governing the wheel arches, allowing the introduction of additional brake cooling ducts.
    • The reintroduction of an active centre differential for the first time since the 2010 season.
    • The introduction of an electronic differential for the first time in the sport.
  • Homologation requirements were relaxed to allow any production car that is at least 3.9 m (12.8 ft) long to be eligible for recognition as a World Rally Car. The design of the car was finalised by September 2016 and submitted for homologation by 1 November 2016.

Sporting regulations

  • The points-scoring system for the World Championship for Manufacturers was changed, with manufacturers permitted to enter at least two and as many as three crews in each round, with the best two results being awarded points.
  • A new Privateers' Cup is scheduled to be contested for crews entering World Rally Cars used between 2011 and 2016.
  • The FIA plans to exercise stricter controls over which drivers are eligible to compete in 2017-specification cars by only permitting registered manufacturers to enter 2017-specification cars. The rule is planned to be introduced as a response to concerns over inexperienced drivers and drivers paying for the opportunity to race from being able to compete in the more powerful 2017 cars without oversight. The controls stop short of a licensing system similar to the one used in Formula One to allow experienced guest drivers to compete part-time.

References

  1. Evans, David (16 October 2016). "Ogier takes fourth WRC title with Spain win". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 16 October 2016.
  2. Evans, David (30 October 2016). "Rally GB: Volkswagen's Sebastien Ogier claims fourth win in Wales". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 31 October 2016.
  3. ^ Evans, David (2 November 2016). "Volkswagen confirms it will leave the WRC at the end of 2016". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 2 November 2016.
  4. ^ "2017 WRC dates confirmed". wrc.com. WRC Promoter GmbH. 28 September 2016. Retrieved 29 September 2016.
  5. ^ Evans, David; Beer, Matt (28 September 2016). "World Rally Championship only confirms partial 2017 calendar". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 29 September 2016.
  6. Evans, David (20 September 2016). "Tour of Corsica set to get April slot in 2017 WRC schedule". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 21 September 2016.
  7. "Rally China cancelled due to weather damage". wrc.com. WRC Promoter GmbH. Retrieved 21 September 2016.
  8. Evans, David (2 March 2016). "FIA taking hard line on WRC Rally Argentina safety". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 8 March 2016.
  9. Evans, David. "Rally Argentina under FIA observation after 2015 safety failings". autosport.com. 20 April 2016. Retrieved 21 April 2016.
  10. Evans, David (30 June 2016). "Rally Poland under pressure to prove safety to ensure WRC future". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 30 June 2016.
  11. Evans, David (7 April 2016). "Circuit of Ireland renews push for World Rally Championship slot". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 8 April 2016.
  12. ^ Evans, David (2 June 2016). "Thirteen new events chasing World Rally Championship calendar slots". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 2 June 2016.
  13. Howard, Tom (29 September 2016). "Rally Australia retains final round berth for 2017". speedcafe.com. Retrieved 30 September 2016.
  14. ^ "Citroën commits to WRC future". WRC.com. WRC Promoter GmbH. 19 November 2015. Retrieved 7 March 2016.
  15. ^ Evans, David (5 April 2016). "Citroën in race against time to develop all-new WRC C3 for 2017". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 6 April 2016.
  16. ^ Evans, David (5 October 2016). "Citroen announces Breen and Lefebvre as Meeke's 2017 WRC team-mates". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 5 October 2016.
  17. "Citroen finalises 2017 WRC line-up". speedcafe.com. 5 October 2016. Retrieved 5 October 2016.
  18. ^ "Hayden Paddon secures Hyundai WRC future". speedcafe.com. 20 October 2015. Retrieved 7 March 2016.
  19. Evans, David (5 October 2016). "Hyundai retains Neuville alongside Paddon and Sordo for 2017 WRC". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 5 October 2016.
  20. "Neuville signs two-year extension with Hyundai". speedcafe.com. 5 October 2016. Retrieved 5 October 2016.
  21. Evans, David (22 August 2016). "Hyundai keeps Dani Sordo for 2017 and '18 World Rally Championships". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 22 August 2016.
  22. ^ Evans, David (13 July 2016). "DMACK wants M-Sports works team deal or Tanak/Evans for 2017 WRC". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 14 July 2016.
  23. "Østberg and Camili join M-Sport". WRC.com. WRC Promoter GmbH. Retrieved 7 March 2016.
  24. ^ Evans, David (5 August 2016). "Craig Breen deserves 2017 WRC drive - Citroen boss Yves Matton". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 5 August 2016.
  25. ^ "Toyota announces WRC return in 2017". Toyota GB Blog. Toyota GB. Retrieved 7 March 2016.
  26. ^ "Toyota GAZOO Racing Outlines 2016 Motorsports Activities". Toyota. 4 February 2015. Retrieved 17 April 2016.
  27. "Hänninen "very likely" for Toyota drive". wrc.com. WRC Promoter GmbH. 11 May 2016. Retrieved 12 May 2016.
  28. ^ Evans, David (18 October 2016). "WRC 2017: Juho Hanninen gets first seat in Toyota's new Yaris". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 18 October 2016.
  29. Abbott, Andrew (19 November 2015). "Citroën to end WTCC programme after 2016". TouringCars.Net. Retrieved 9 April 2016.
  30. ^ Evans, David (23 September 2016). "Hyundai close to final specification of its 2017 World Rally Car". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 23 September 2016.
  31. ^ Evans, David (22 June 2016). "Hyundai to switch its i20 World Rally Championship model for 2017". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 23 June 2016.
  32. "Tommi Mäkinen to head up Toyota's WRC bid". speedcafe.com. 7 July 2015. Retrieved 7 March 2016.
  33. ^ "WRC cars to become more aggressive in 2017". speedcafe.com. 11 July 2015. Retrieved 7 March 2016.
  34. ^ Evans, David (11 April 2016). "Concerns over speed and spectacle of 2017 WRC cars growing". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 11 April 2016.
  35. ^ "Meeke: 2017 Citroën has Group B spirit". wrc.com. WRC Promoter GmbH. 19 April 2016. Retrieved 21 April 2016.
  36. "Citroën uncovers new C3 WRC car". speedcafe.com. 16 April 2016. Retrieved 16 April 2016.
  37. ^ "New regulations coming for the 2017 World Rally Car". fia.com. Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile. 10 July 2015. Retrieved 14 April 2016.
  38. ^ "Citroen successfully tests 2017 WRC aero kit". speedcafe.com. 15 June 2016. Retrieved 20 July 2016.
  39. "Citroen previews its 2017 WRC challenger". speedcafe.com. Citroën. 21 September 2016. Retrieved 21 September 2016.
  40. Evans, David (21 July 2016). "Volkswagen close to finalising 2017 World Rally Car design". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 21 July 2016.
  41. Evans, David (10 May 2016). "Future of existing WRC cars being evaluated by FIA". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 10 May 2016.
  42. Evans, David (24 June 2016). "No privateer 2017 World Rally Car entries to be permitted by FIA". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 25 June 2016.
  43. Evans, David (5 May 2016). "Drivers of 2017 World Rally Cars must be approved by FIA". autosport.com. Haymarket Publications. Retrieved 6 May 2016.

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