Stoner's V8 switch finally confirmed

Stoner will race Craig Lowndes' 2010 Bathurst-winning VE Commodore in the Dunlop Series this year, carrying sponsorship from Red Bull, along with the return of a familiar name in Pirtek.

Entered by Triple Eight Race Engineering, Stoner's Red Bull Pirtek Commodore will feature the same "27" race number he used throughout his two wheel career.

The livery for Stoner's car will be unveiled along with Stoner's team at an official launch on Wednesday, February 27, just before the 27-year-old will make his series race debut at the Clipsal 500 V8 Supercars season opener.

In a Pirtek press release, Stoner said he was looking forward to running the famous Pirtek colours.

"Red Bull have been long-time supporters of mine and it's great they will be a part of this next phase of my career in partnership with Pirtek," Stoner said. "Pirtek is one of those iconic brands in Australia - especially when it comes to motorsport and success."

Stoner, who won the MotoGP World Championship with Ducati in 2007 and Honda in 2011, is realistic about his prospects in his debut season.

"I am not promising we can deliver what Marcos (Ambrose) did before heading off to NASCAR, but we will be trying to learn and develop as we can and see what that brings."

Of course, the Pirtek livery and signage is best remembered for its adornment of Marcos Ambrose's 2003 and 2004 V8 Supercar championship-winning Fords.

Triple Eight team boss, Roland Dane, is as keen as the fans to see Stoner's four wheel debut.

"Like Marcos, Casey is the ultimate professional and I think everyone involved is looking forward to being a part of his transition from two to four wheels."

The Clipsal 500 runs from February 28 to March 3.