Nissan offers V8SC test for F4 driver

Nissan Motorsport's Todd and Rick Kelly are on the look-out for a Formula 4 driver to get behind the wheel of an Altima V8 Supercar next year.

The Kellys both began their motorsport careers in Formula Ford – since succeeded by Formula 4. Motivated by their own experience in the previous development category, they will choose a driver from this year's F4 category to test a Nissan Motorsport Altima – which could be the carsales.com.au-sponsored car.

The lucky driver will make the grade based on skills and off-track attitude, according to a press release issued by Nissan Motorsport.

It's not certain that the driver chosen will be the 2015 F4 champion, who will earn $250,000 and a test opportunity with UK-based F3 team, Carlin Motorsport. That prize is an opportunity to groom the next Webber or Ricciardo for F1.

The Nissan Motorsport prize is aimed more at drivers who would like to establish a motor racing career in Australia – and presumably in V8s – so it won't necessarily preclude the F4 champion for 2015 from consideration.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for us to have a hand in trying to bring the next generation of drivers through the ranks," Todd Kelly was quoted saying in the press release.

"Developing young talent is something that Rick and I are passionate about, considering the hard work that we went through to become professional racing drivers.

"We know better than most the money, equipment and commitment that is needed to have a decent crack at a career in this game.

"We've tried a few different ways of giving young drivers a chance and this is another opportunity for us to be involved in the development of a future star."

The common thread is sponsor Jayco, which is backing both Todd Kelly's #7 Altima in V8s and the whole Formula 4 championship.

Making its debut this weekend in Townsville, the Jayco Australian Formula 4 Championship will be a support category for V8s throughout the year. Three F4 races will take place in Townsville.