Don't know why Citroen did back him and Gryazin with official programme this year after absence for so long time and with quite ''old'' Rally2 car model, but my guess is they are looking at 2027 what it would be. It could be they are maybe just boosting their car recognition but doing that would be sensible when they build it (2018), not now when car manufacturer have completely new model of C3. Maybe they are preparing the terrain for Lancia to come and take their experience and build similar machine, since they are quite serious about rallying. So having already drivers with experience is better to showcase straight away than hiring someone new. But this is just my guess, only reffering to that article about their looking closely at FIA.

Supporting him by FFSA at this stage when he can become WRC2 champion, I think it doesn't have a point, just making him some more money. It would make sense if he would be in JWRC or show talent, and being young. That way he could afford outing on a WRC level, but he already have it by Citroen.