Kelly eyes Indy coup

THIS weekend’s Gold Coast 600 is an audition for a drive in Kelly Racing’s four- car Nissan team after Rick Kelly revealed his audacious plan to land an IndyCar star.

With two seats at his Victorian- based outfit up for grabs, Kelly has held talks with several IndyCar series drivers about making a switch to V8 Supercars.

Holden driver Michael Caruso remains favourite to grab one of the two spots at the team for its high-profile switch from Holden to Nissan.

But Kelly is hopeful of being the first team to land an IndyCar driver full-time.

‘‘We have been in discussion with a f ew American-based drivers,’’ he said.

‘‘We have a couple of seats that are undecided and we are looking for the best possible candidates whether they be based here or overseas.

‘‘Nissan are a manufacturer that will demand success and we are looking to get a driver that will give them every chance.’’

Kelly said drivers from the Indycar or Le Mans series would be able to make the switch to the Australian- based V8 Supercars series.