Rusinov seals WEC LMP2 return as G-Drive partners TDS

Rusinov, who has a WEC LMP2 title from 2015 and has taken 15 class wins under the G-Drive banner since 2013, warned he could be heading out of the series after he lost his silver-rated status at the end of last year.

However, the Russian's return has now been arranged through a partnership with top-line ELMS outfit TDS Racing.

French team TDS had announced its would be entering WEC in 2017 back in November, confirming a driver trio of Matthieu Vaxiviere, Emmanuel Collard and Francois Perrodo in an Oreca 07.

It will now be adding a second Oreca 07 for Rusinov, long-time driver and ELMS champion Thiriet and a yet-to-be-signed third driver.

According to G-Drive, the outfit is in talks with "several drivers with Formula 1 race experience" regarding the remaining spot in the line-up.

"I'll be honest, getting all the parts together to aim for the highest goals was not easy this year, as the change in technical regulations has forced us to seek a new prototype manufacturer and engine supplier," Rusinov said.

"We have been working on this for the past six months, and have settled on the new Oreca model. We believe this will be the fastest car, and we are optimistic ahead of the start of the season."

G-Drive's previous partner team JOTA Sport is expected to continue in WEC, although its plans have not yet been finalised.