The 77th season of the Campeonato Gaúcho kicked off on February 2, 1997, and ended on June 29, 1997.
Internacional beat holders Grêmio in the finals and won their 33rd title.
[1][2] Aimoré and Atlético de Carazinho withdrew before the start of the championship, and to replace them, São Borja and Farroupilha were promoted to the First level.
[3] The championship would have five stages:[2][1] For the second semester, a state cup was held; the Copa Galego.
The two best teams in each group won an automatic qualification into the Second phase of the 1998 championship, and the best teams in each group qualified to the Finals, disputed in two matches.