Kelly confirmed at Jack Daniels Racing.

Larry Perkins Racing has officially confirmed the rumour that it has signed leading Holden driver Todd Kelly to head up its 2008 V8 Supercar campaign, revealing the former HRT frontrunner in his new Jack Daniel's colours.

The 28-year old will race alongside young hopeful Shane Price, replacing Jack Perkins, who was forced to sit out the end of the 2007 season after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

The move to Jack Daniel's Racing would, at first glance, appear to be an odd one for Kelly, who effectively swaps a race-winning car for one that has struggled to make the top ten in recent seasons, but the series veteran insists that he is happy to start a new chapter after ten years with the Holden Young Lions, Kmart and HRT teams.

"A number of things are being considered at HRT which has enabled me to explore all the available options," he revealed, "After ten fantastic years, I have decided it was time to accept a new challenge."

Kelly bring valuable experience to Larry Perkins eponymous outfit, starting 106 races since his 1999 debut at Eastern Creek. In the intervening period, he has racked up 18 race and nine round wins, as well as 16 other podium finishes, including top spot in the 2003 Sandown and 2005 Bathurst enduros. He has finished inside the top ten in the points in each of his seven full-time seasons.

"You can't help but grow close relationships with people you work so closely alongside for ten years, so I'm sure I will miss everyone at HRT, but it is time for a change of scenery," Kelly admitted, "I couldn't be more excited. There's huge potential in Jack Daniel's Racing and Larry has offered me the opportunity to be more involved with the team and cars - which is what I really enjoy.

"The people within the team, and the enthusiasm between it and the sponsors is also exciting. The change has already reignited my passion and given me a new lease on
life."

Despite the disappointment at seeing his own son sidelined, Perkins admitted that Kelly was the perfect fit for Jack Daniel's Racing.

"Todd is a driver who has a rare mix of experience and technical ability and we are very happy to sign him," the former V8 racer said, "He's someone who can contribute to the team and its performance both on and off the track, and he's excited about working with us. I think he'll fit in perfectly."