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THE 2017 WRC Championship saw the most dramatic change to regulations since the group B era and the season delivery the most exciting championship in years. All four registered manufacturers recording a win. Seven different drivers took the top step of the podium with M-Sport Ford and Sebastian Ogier ultimately taking home the championship spoils.

Ford and Hyundai took full advantage of the new regulations taking first and second respectfully in the manufacturers while Toyota make an impressive return to the championship taking third. Citroen had the most difficult transition to the new regulations remaining on the bottom of the table in fourth.

Irish rally fans were focused on Kris Meeke, Paul Nagle and Craig Breen, all with the Citroen team. Meeke and Nagle ended the season seventh in the championship with an epic win in Mexico and a dominant win in Spain. However, the overall result is not reflective of their potential.

On paper, pre-season the Citroen crew were serious contenders for the title. Unfortunately, they had to overcome an underperforming Citroen C3 all season. Five retirements from thirteen starts - both mechanical failures and driver errors – mostly brought about by driving a car beyond what the car was capable of in search of a good result. The difficulty for the Meeke and Nagle’s championship was that they were in contention on four out of the five retirements.

Craig Breen in his first full WRC season had consistent results build his experience and confidence for next season.

Citroen admitted halfway through 2017 that all their focus was now on developing their 2018 car. Citroen are a big budget team and they know how to win. Meeke and Nagle in a performing car are championship contenders – Citroen need to deliver for 2018.