What Is 2017 Russian Circuit Racing Series

Overview

The 2017 Russian Circuit Racing Series (RCRS) marked the 12th season of Russia’s premier national circuit racing championship. It featured a mix of touring cars, GT-style machines, and entry-level production vehicles competing across multiple performance-based classes.

Organized by the Russian Automobile Federation, the series aimed to promote domestic motorsport talent and provide a structured platform for drivers to progress toward international competition. The 2017 season emphasized technical parity, safety, and accessibility for privateer teams and manufacturers.

• Five official classes competed: Super Production, Touring, Super Taifun, GT4, and Cup, each with distinct regulations and vehicle specifications.
• The season included six rounds, with five held in Russia and one at the Smolensk Ring in Belarus, expanding regional reach.
• Andrey Zhukov claimed the Super Production title, finishing with 242 points after consistent podium finishes.
• The Touring class was won by Aleksandr Levanevskiy, who secured the championship with three victories.
• Each race weekend featured two sprint races per class, typically lasting 20–25 minutes, with full points awarded.

How It Works

The RCRS operates under a tiered classification system, allowing drivers of varying experience and budgets to compete in balanced categories. Each class follows FIA-inspired technical regulations, with homologated vehicles and controlled modifications.

• Super Production: Features 1.6–2.0L naturally aspirated or turbocharged four-cylinder cars with a minimum weight of 1,200 kg and 280 hp output.
• Touring: Includes front-wheel-drive compact sedans and hatchbacks with 1.4–1.8L engines, limited to 180 hp for close competition.
• Super Taifun: A one-make series using identical Lada Granta cars with 110 hp engines, designed for entry-level drivers.
• GT4: Allows FIA-homologated GT4-spec vehicles such as the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 and BMW M4 GT4 with 450–500 hp.
• Cup Class: Reserved for novice drivers using 1.6L production-based vehicles with safety modifications and standardized tires.
• Points System: Awards points to the top 15 finishers in each race, with 25 for 1st, 18 for 2nd, 15 for 3rd, decreasing incrementally.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares the five main classes in the 2017 RCRS by engine specs, weight, power, and notable vehicles:

This structure ensured competitive balance across diverse performance levels. The inclusion of GT4 brought higher-profile machinery, while Cup and Super Taifun supported grassroots development. Technical regulations were strictly enforced by series officials to maintain parity.

Why It Matters

The 2017 RCRS played a crucial role in nurturing Russian motorsport talent and supporting local automotive engineering. It served as a proving ground for drivers aiming for international series like TCR Russia or the FIA WTCR.

• Driver Development: Many competitors used RCRS as a stepping stone to TCR Eastern Europe and other international touring series.
• Manufacturer Involvement: Lada, Hyundai, and BMW actively supported teams, using the series for brand visibility and R&D feedback.
• Cost Control: Strict technical rules and spec components kept entry costs below $50,000 for most classes.
• Safety Standards: All cars required FIA-compliant roll cages, fire suppression, and HANS devices, improving track safety.
• Regional Growth: The Smolensk Ring round helped expand the series’ footprint into Eastern Europe.
• Media Coverage: Races were broadcast on Match TV and online, increasing visibility for domestic motorsport.

Overall, the 2017 season strengthened the foundation of circuit racing in Russia, combining competitive racing with accessible entry points for new drivers and teams.