Kmart sells out.

Store chain Kmart has ended its relationship with the Australian V8 Supercar series by announcing that it will not be sponsoring the cars to be driven by Rick Kelly and Garth Tander this year.

The Kmart Racing programme has been one of the more successful in recent seasons, claiming two Bathurst 1000 wins with Kelly and the now departed Greg Murphy, while 'Murf' has also been in title contention over the past couple of years.

Kmart sells out.

Store chain Kmart has ended its relationship with the Australian V8 Supercar series by announcing that it will not be sponsoring the cars to be driven by Rick Kelly and Garth Tander this year.

The Kmart Racing programme has been one of the more successful in recent seasons, claiming two Bathurst 1000 wins with Kelly and the now departed Greg Murphy, while 'Murf' has also been in title contention over the past couple of years.

"The decision was reached amicably and follows our annual business review of all sponsorships associated with our brand," Kmart managing director Hani Zayadi said, "It ends a very successful five-year arrangement, and all of us at Kmart wish the team every future success."

The white, blue and red Holdens were among the more recognisable in the field, but are now left to find a new title backer ahead of the 2005 campaign, which kicks off at the Australian F1 Grand Prix in March. Despite the setback, however, the team, owned by Kelly's father John, will continue to field two cars.

"It will run two cars again in 2005, but is looking for other sponsorship," Holden Motorsport spokesman Tim Pemberton confirmed to Adelaide's Advertiser newspaper.

Read More